Busboys and Poets aims to be not only a restaurant, but also a space in which intellectual, cultural, political, and social issues can come together for a discussion that benefits everyone. Busboys and Poets Books is a space devoted to strengthening the communities our stores are in throughout DC, MD, and VA through access to socially-conscious literature, programs, healing conversations and a respectful exchange of ideas. We do not tolerate any hate speech, including racism, transphobia or homophobia, as all Busboys and Poets are safe spaces for folks of all races, gender identities, sexualities, (dis)abilities, national origins, and ages.

We are committed to showcasing books and authors—on a local and national level—who have contributed to conversations concerning great social struggles. Prominently featuring Black voices and experiences, this also extends to issues of women’s and LGBTQIA+ liberation, and more generally to the perspectives of all the dispossessed and marginalized in this country. Our programs are a cultural hub for artists, writers, activists, thinkers, and dreamers, and we want everyone to leave feeling inspired to action! We welcome all authors, including those who are just getting their feet wet, here at Busboys and Poets.

If you can’t visit us in person you can ORDER BOOKS ONLINE HERE or ship a little (non-food) piece of BUSBOYS HOME TO YOU.

Need some additional help or direction? No problem! Please see the following list of contacts for relevant bookstore business and affairs. Don’t see anything that fits who you’re looking for? Reach out to books@busboysandpoets.com.

Special Order Inquiries: books@busboysandpoets.com or FILL OUT OUR SPECIAL ORDERS FORM
New Vendor Inquiries: books@busboysandpoets.com
Author services: authors@busboysandpoets.com

For information on book event inquiries, please check out our BOOK EVENTS page.

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