Smith & Hannon Bookstore relocating to Over-the-Rhine

Retailer to open on Vine Street this weekend

CINCINNATI (April 23, 2019) – Smith & Hannon Bookstore, the city’s only free-standing bookstore owned by an African American, is set to open in Over-the-Rhine on Saturday, Apr. 27.

The bookstore – a unique seller of African American literature – will open at 1405 Vine Street in a 1,147-square-foot storefront. Smith & Hannon is leasing the space from the Cincinnati Center City Development Corp. (3CDC).

The bookstore sells new and used books, jewelry, greeting cards, souvenirs and carvings, among other items. Prices range to accommodate all types of customers. While the store specializes in African American literature, it also sells books of varying genres.

In 2003, former Cincinnati educator Joyce Smith opened Smith & Hannon in Bond Hill. After teaching for 34 years in public and parochial schools, Smith founded the bookstore to promote literacy and education in the African American community.

“I really like the idea of being in Over-the-Rhine,” Smith said. “It’s a very popular walking community. I feel I might be able to make an impact in the area.”

Smith & Hannon moved from Bond Hill to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, where it had been located until this move. The store will continue to engage the community in its new space through children’s storybook events and book signings with local and national authors.

“We can never do without reading,” Smith said. “This store has survived even through the age of the Internet and eBooks. People still like to hold a book in their hands.”

The store will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m.

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