Milwaukee’s Niche Book Bar seeks crowdfunding to finish build-out

Weston-Roy’s journey to establish Niche Book Bar has been marked by resilience and adaptability. When the COVID-19 pandemic forced many businesses to close their physical locations, she pivoted to a mobile “book bicycle” to keep her dream alive. In 2021, she secured a vacant city-owned property on Martin Luther King Drive through a competitive proposal process, giving Niche Book Bar a permanent home.

However, the path to opening has been challenging. The bookstore faced significant contractor issues, including a contractor who allegedly misappropriated 40% of the construction funds in 2022, leading to ongoing litigation. A subsequent contractor underbid and mismanaged the project, causing further delays and financial strain.

Determined to overcome these obstacles, Weston-Roy has launched an Indiegogo campaign to raise $55,060 to complete essential renovations, including electrical work, drywall installation, door replacements, carpentry, and insulation. The campaign aims to bridge the funding gap and allow Niche Book Bar to fulfill its vision of creating a vibrant community space centered around Black literature.

The bookstore’s motto, “Black books, red wine,” reflects its commitment to showcasing diverse voices and offering a unique experience for patrons. By highlighting Black authors across various genres, Niche Book Bar seeks to uplift and empower the community through literature and entrepreneurship.

Weston-Roy promises transparency as the Indiegogo campaign progresses, regularly updating supporters on the bookstore’s progress. She envisions Niche Book Bar as a place where books and readers unite, fostering meaningful connections and conversations.

The opening of Niche Book Bar holds significant meaning for Milwaukee, a city with a complex history of racial, ethnic, and class issues. The bookstore’s presence in Bronzeville represents a positive step toward celebrating and uplifting the Black community through literature and entrepreneurship.