Bookstores must remain open

Re “L.A. black-focus bookshop may close,” Oct. 5

Independent booksellers are a critical component in any society wishing to nourish the freedoms enshrined in the 1st Amendment. Without bookshops like Eso Won, the national chains will have a monopoly on what is sold, and, ultimately, they will be able to dictate what is published and read. On a personal note, I will always owe co-owners James Fugate and Thomas Hamilton a debt of gratitude. Eso Won was the venue where I had my first book signing as a newly published author. I wasn’t anyone famous, but they welcomed me with such warmth and enthusiasm that I could have been. Eso Won is not just a bookstore, and not just a black bookstore. Eso Won represents an essential element in our community’s fight for freedom of expression.

Marissa N. Batt

La Quinta