Novel Booksellers Join CWA

Last week, CWA District 3 Organizing Coordinator Akeyia Johnson went public with news that workers at Novel Booksellers in Memphis, Tenn., had organized to form the Novel Booksellers Union (NBU-CWA). At the press conference, guests included Tennessee State Representative Justin Pearson (D-09) and CWA Assistant Organizing Director Gail Tyree. The booksellers won their union election with a clear supermajority in favor.

Novel Booksellers has served as a hub for literature, learning, and community connection for more than four decades. From hosting author events and book clubs to partnering with local schools, writers, and organizations, the bookstore has played a vital role in the cultural life of Memphis. The booksellers who power this work say their decision to organize came from a deep love for the store and the community.

“We show up every day for our customers and each other,” said Gordon Pera, a Novel Booksellers worker. “We are proud of the welcoming and inclusive space we create. Unionizing is about ensuring that the people who sustain this institution are treated with dignity, fairness, and respect.”

Workers organized to secure fair compensation, a voice in decisions that affect their work and livelihoods, and clear workplace protections. Booksellers say these steps are essential not only for their own stability but also for the long-term health of Novel as a community institution. They emphasized that their organizing efforts align with Novel’s longstanding mission of community investment and engagement and expressed hope that investors and leadership will recognize their union and bargain toward a fair contract.

Click here to watch a video of the press conference on Instagram.

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This post originally appeared on cwa-union.org.