Trenessa Williams, founder of the online bookshop Kizzy's Books & More, is planning to open a bricks-and-mortar storefront within the next few months. BlackNews.com reported that the "intended location is in the Parramore neighborhood in west-central Orlando, Fla. Once launched, it will be the only Black-owned book store in the area, and the Parramore neighborhood is perfect because it's a historic community that is currently being revitalized."
Named after the character Kizzy from Alex Haley's Roots, the bookstore "is committed to embracing the African-American culture and the joy of reading," according to its website. "We aim to provide a place for lovers of African-American literature and other creative expressions with a welcoming ambiance and customer service. The company additionally seeks to provide a comfortable atmosphere for its customers that promote browsing, relaxation, and an enjoyable environment to spend extended time in."
An Indiegogo campaign has been launched to raise capital for the initial inventory and POS system, BlackNews.com wrote, adding that the idea for Kizzy's Books & More began in 2008 when Williams "noticed that there wasn't a bookstore that focused on African-American Literature in Orlando. This discovery began her quest to learn more about the bookselling industry and how to own a bookstore. She began obtaining the necessary training, and this year she decided to step out on faith and turn her dream into a reality."