Violet Valley Bookstore

Violet Valley Bookstore was founded in 2017 by Dr. Jaime Harker, a professor of English and gender studies at the University of Mississippi, with one core mission: to make queer, trans, feminist, and multicultural books more accessible to our local community, the state of Mississippi, and the U.S. South more broadly. Moreover, Dr. Harker was inspired by the passage of HB 1523—a law commonly viewed as the most severe anti-LGBTQ law in America—to build a public space for LGBTQ persons (especially youths) who live in some of the most rural regions of our state. Violet Valley sells new and used books at affordable prices so that all of our patrons, regardless of income level, can access accurate and valuable information.

Located on the Main Street of Water Valley in Yalobusha County, Violet Valley serves the LGBTQ community of Mississippi in numerous ways. Our large rainbow flags and other storefront symbols openly advertise our support for the LGBTQ community, lessening the feelings of fear and isolation that too often shape the life experiences of LGBTQ Mississippians. We are fortunate that, as a non-profit organization funded in part by book donations, we are able to provide opportunities for networking and intellectual/emotional growth that do not require visitors to spend money, drink alcohol, or be above a certain age. Over time, our coverage in diverse media outlets such as People, VICE, FNewsMagazine, and Literary Hub has sent a powerful message to national audiences about LGBTQ organizing by/for Mississippians.

Now nearing our five-year anniversary, Violet Valley has recently expanded its operation to welcome a second staff member and a range of new programming—author readings, virtual/in-person book clubs, youth writers' workshops, outreach at statewide Pride events, and more. In 2021, we were extremely honored to receive two grants from the LGBTQ Fund of Mississippi and a mini-grant from the Mississippi Arts Commission. We consider it a great privilege to support youth, rural, and all other LGBTQ Mississippians, and we hope you will consider supporting our mission in 2022! For more information about us, please visit our website at www.VioletValley.org or email us at violetvalleybooks@gmail.com.