Charis Books and More is more than a place to buy books. Owners regard it as a third space and a haven, “supporting diverse and marginalized voices.” Over the past five decades, the Decatur-based bookstore has remained a community staple for the metro Atlanta area.
As the bookstore celebrates its 50th anniversary, “Closer Look” show host Rose Scott talks with Charis owners Sara Luce Look, Angela Gabriel and executive director Errol “E.R.” Anderson about the bookstore’s many storied chapters.
For the first part of the conversation, the booksellers give Scott a tour of the bookstore. They discuss transitioning their store from the Little Five Points neighborhood to Agnes Scott College. They also share their approach to offering curated programming, the bookstore’s diverse collection of books, including its children’s book collection.
The second part of the conversation continues with the booksellers reflecting candidly about the successes and challenges they’ve endured while operating the oldest independent feminist bookstore in the South. They also talk more about the bookstore’s identity — past, present and future — and its mission to serve the community.
