COLUMBUS, Ohio – Central Ohio is getting a bookstore; this time in Columbus’ historic Olde Towne East neighborhood. Spotlight Books LLC will open its doors on November 21 at noon. The bookstore is owned by Jennifer R. Farmer, who leads the social justice public relations firm, Spotlight PR LLC. This Black woman-owned bookstore ushers in a new era for Olde Towne East as it’s the community’s first brick and mortar bookstore in more than a decade.
“When I was a child, Mount Vernon Avenue on Columbus’ East Side was a hub for culture, connection and community. The one thing that was missing was a bookstore,” said Jennifer R. Farmer, the founder of Spotlight Books. “Bookstores are often accessible in Columbus’ higher-income neighborhoods. Spotlight Books exists to give every child and young person on the Near East Side a place to stimulate their minds, sharpen their intellect, and spur a lifelong passion for learning.”
Spotlight Books is a culmination of Farmer’s professional work as a public relations expert of more than 24 years, a Columbus, Ohio native, author and booklover. The store will carry new and gently used books from authors from all backgrounds, with a focus on children’s and social justice titles. It will also showcase titles from Spotlight PR’s brilliantly gifted clients and partners, such as Dr. Marcus Anthony Hunter, author of “Radical Reparations: Healing the Soul of a Nation;” Miami-based Ruth Jeannoel, author of “Restorative Practices: Circle Keeping for Community Healing;” D.C.-based Deepa Iyer, author of “We Are the Builders;” and Dr. David Johns, editor in chief of “The Black Papers: A Policy Agenda for Black Liberation in the 21st Century.”
The grand opening event will offer a first look at the store, an unveiling of murals created by acclaimed artists Nichole Burton; and jewelry created by local artist Beryl Thompson. This event will take place at noon on Nov. 21st at 107 Parsons Avenue in Columbus, Ohio. Members of the media who are interested in attending should RSVP by emailing press@spotlightpr.org.
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Jennifer R. Farmer is an entrepreneur who values faith, community, and service. Since 2017, she has run the social justice public relations firm, Spotlight PR LLC, which works with leaders and organizations committed to social good. Spotlight Books grew out of that same commitment: to offer insightful, culturally uplifting books that inspire curiosity and a passion for learning in young readers.