LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — The Las Vegas Strip has welcomed its first Black-owned bookstore, marking a historic milestone for an area that was widely segregated before the 1960s.
R.D. Talley Books opened last fall on the third floor of the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. Owner Roderick Talley Sr. said the achievement represents significant progress from an era when African Americans were not allowed to stay, shop or gamble at major Strip establishments.
“It’s something that hasn’t been done before,” Talley said. “Knowing the history of the city, there was a time when Black people couldn’t even be on the Strip.”
Creating a welcoming space
The bookstore features authors from various backgrounds and time periods. Talley, who is also a writer, said he created the space to celebrate all of Las Vegas’s history, including Black, Latino and Indigenous contributions.
“I think it’s a testament to just how far we can take things if we just put forth the effort and get the right support,” Talley said.
The store aims to provide a platform for authors who have traditionally struggled to have their books displayed in major retailers. Talley said the Strip location offers exposure to tourists from different cities, states and countries.
“We are in a location that offers a lot of exposure, and I feel like, wow, this is something that we could really promote,” he said.
Wide selection and welcoming atmosphere
Talley said the store offers a wide selection of books at a time when books are disappearing from shelves elsewhere.
“It’s very easy to find something that you’re going to like, not to mention, you’re going to feel safe. You’re going to feel welcome here. You’re going to be respected here,” he said.
Talley said he hopes his store will encourage other diverse and unique shops to open on the Strip.
“[I want to] let them know number one there are no places too big for you, and number two, if God gave you a vision, nobody can stop it but you,” he said.
The store will host a book signing for local author Rae Lashea on March 21 from 2 to 6 p.m.
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