As a Latine/Indigenous book reader, I recently visited two Barnes and Noble stores during Latinx Heritage Month, hoping to find a display or table celebrating the rich diversity of Latinx authors. To my immense disappointment, I found no such representation. There were hardly any Latine authors in the store. When I shared my experience with fellow book enthusiasts on Booktok, they too expressed their frustration at the lack of recognition for Latine authors during this important month. Even in predominate Latine communities, the Barnes and Noble locations lacked celebration displays of Latine Heritage month and the amount of Latine books by Latine authors were underwhelming. 

It is disheartening to see a major bookstore chain like Barnes and Noble overlook the opportunity to celebrate diverse voices in literature. This petition aims to urge Barnes and Noble to require book tables or displays that include celebrations of diversity throughout their stores.

Books have the power to educate, inspire, and foster empathy among readers. By showcasing books from various backgrounds and cultures, we can promote understanding, inclusivity, and appreciation for different perspectives. It is crucial that all readers have access to literature that reflects their own experiences as well as introduces them to new ones.

According to a study conducted by Lee & Low Books in 2019*, only 7% of children's books published featured characters from underrepresented racial or ethnic backgrounds. This lack of representation perpetuates stereotypes, and limits opportunities for marginalized communities' stories to be heard.

By requiring book tables or displays that celebrate diversity within its stores, Barnes and Noble can play a significant role in addressing this issue head-on. Such displays would not only provide visibility for authors from diverse backgrounds but also encourage readers of all ages to explore new narratives beyond their own lived experiences.

Barnes and Noble has always been known as a haven for book lovers seeking knowledge, entertainment, or simply an escape into another world through literature. By embracing diversity in its displays throughout the year – whether it be during Black History Month, Pride Month, Indigenous Peoples Month  – Barnes & Noble can further solidify its commitment to inclusivity and become a beacon of representation in the literary world.

We, the undersigned, call on Barnes and Noble to take immediate action by requiring book tables or displays that celebrate diversity within all of their stores. Let us create an inclusive space where readers from all backgrounds can find themselves reflected in the pages of books and discover new voices that broaden their horizons.

Together, let's encourage Barnes and Noble to champion diversity, promote equality, and foster a love for reading that transcends boundaries and borders! Hopefully the next time a person of color goes to Barnes and Noble, they can see their stories amongst other intersectionalities represented and celebrated in literature. 

*Source: Lee & Low Books - "Diversity Baseline Survey" (2019)