One of the greatest opportunities in my life came along when I stumbled unwittingly into Modern Times Bookstore. I’ve long felt a deep passion for progressive politics and literature alike, so Modern Times has felt like a real home for me from the beginning. It feels almost unfair to have this description focus solely on myself, as we operate as a collective, and feel something like an odd family.
I grew up moving constantly, so I never felt too rooted in one location. Upon moving to San Francisco some years ago, I was delighted to find a place I was finally proud to call home. The city has so much to offer, and I couldn’t wait to dive in and help contribute. Modern Times really gave me a proper outlet and the trust in my capabilities to add my own personal touch to an amazing business in an amazing city.
Through the store, I’ve met many people in the literary world (more authors & poets & editors than I can count), activists, and politicians alike, not to mention the great cast of intellectuals, international tourists, and oddballs that walk through the door on a daily basis. I really love my bookstore, and am always looking for ways to make it better.
Modern Times Bookstore started out in 1971 as a collectively-run bookstore catering to the needs and interests of San Francisco’s progressive activists. It has continued on in the same vein ever since, establishing itself as one of the premier politically-charged bookstores in the country and a vital part of the Mission District community. You can find us on 24th Street open every day, ready to sell books in English and Spanish alike.
San Francisco has been changing drastically in the last few years, with many old friends and fellow businesses having to pack up for more affordable locations. By growing our worker collective and standing for our values right here in the Mission, Modern Times is looking to live up to its legacy and provide a space for books, politics, and community for many years to come.
This loan would help Modern Times stay stocked with the freshest titles coming out in the next few months, keep our store looking great, and keep our customers pleased. Additionally, in a time when many bookstores are disappearing, we’ll use our loan to encourage new membership in our worker collective, to train new hires, and provide a living wage to all of our workers.
A loan of $6,000 helps me to buy more books to expand Modern Times’ stock, and to grow the worker collective.