Our Story
Zora’s Place was born from a simple, soul-deep truth: we need a space of our own. A space where Black stories are centered, celebrated, and shared. A space where sisterhood and self-care are sacred. A space that feels like home.
Named in honor of literary icon Zora Neale Hurston, Zora’s Place is Evanston’s first Black feminist bookstore—a cozy, creative sanctuary where readers, writers, and dreamers gather. Whether you’re browsing for your next favorite book, joining us for a community event, or simply stopping by to exhale and exist, you’re welcome here.
Our Mission
Zora’s Place is on a mission to cultivate a vibrant space that centers Black women and femmes through literature, community, and wellness. We exist to amplify underrepresented voices, nourish our collective imagination, and remind you that you are not alone in your story.
Our Vision
We envision a world where Black women’s stories are not only seen and heard—but cherished. Zora’s Place is more than a bookstore. It’s a gathering ground. A resting place. A revolution in soft form. Our vision is to create a sustainable space that inspires healing, sparks joy, and fuels liberation—one book, one conversation, one community event at a time.
Our Values
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We honor the radical, revolutionary tradition of Black feminist thought and storytelling.
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We believe in building together, not climbing over one another.
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Rest, joy, and reflection are essential—not optional.
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Every book on our shelves is handpicked to reflect, affirm, and expand the narratives of our community.
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Zora’s Place is for everyone who values equity, inclusion, and the magic of diverse stories.
Our Founder
L’Oreal Thompson Payton
L’Oreal Thompson Payton is a writer, wellness advocate, and lifelong book lover who believes in the power of stories to heal and transform. A seasoned journalist and bestselling author of Stop Waiting for Perfect, L’Oreal created Zora’s Place as the bookstore she always wished existed: one that reflects the beauty, brilliance, and complexity of Black womanhood.
Rooted in both reverence for the literary greats and a deep love for today’s storytellers, L’Oreal sees Zora’s Place as more than a business—it’s a love letter to Black women, to Evanston, and to every reader who’s ever longed for a space where they truly belong.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of bookstore is Zora’s Place?
Zora’s Place is Evanston’s first Black feminist bookstore—a cozy, creative space where Black stories are centered, celebrated, and shared. Our shelves feature books by authors of all backgrounds, but our heart beats for works by Black women and nonbinary authors. We also carry curated wellness goods, journals, and gifts that align with our mission: Read. Rest. Resist.
Do you only sell books by Black women and nonbinary authors?
Not exclusively. While our mission centers Black women and nonbinary voices—especially in the genres of fiction, nonfiction, memoir, poetry, and children’s books—we also carry titles from Black authors of all identities whose work reflects our values of equity, justice, joy, and liberation.
I’m an author. Will you carry my book?
It depends! At this time, we are only able to work with authors whose books are available on Ingram or IngramSpark, which means we do not currently have capacity to sell books on consignment.
If you are self-published, we prioritize books written by Black women and nonbinary authors who are local to Evanston and the greater Chicagoland area. For more information, please visit our Author Submission Form.
How do you decide which books to carry?
Our selection process is rooted in our mission and values. We prioritize:
Books by Black women and nonbinary authors
Stories that center Black experiences across all genres
Titles that spark joy, inspire critical thinking, and foster community dialogue
We also consider literary merit, audience interest, and space limitations when making decisions.
Do you host events?
Absolutely! We host author talks, book signings, storytime, wellness workshops, open mics, and more. Keep an eye on our Events Page or sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop.
Can I rent Zora’s Place for a private event?
Yes! Our cozy space is available for small gatherings such as book launches, birthday parties, or community meetings. Visit our Private Events page for rates, availability, and rental policies.
Do you buy used books?
Not at this time. Our inventory is entirely new and intentionally selected to align with our mission.
What’s your return policy?
All returns must be made within 7 days of purchase. We cannot accept any returned items without a receipt or proof of purchase. Items must be returned in the same condition in which they were purchased. We reserve the right to decline a return if the book appears to have been read or damaged since purchase.
Shrink-wrapped or otherwise sealed items will not be accepted if opened or without their original packaging.
All sales from our discount section, as well as all bulk purchases, preorders, and special orders, are final.
Are you currently hiring?
We appreciate your interest; however, we are not hiring at this time. We will be sure to update this page and share on social media if this changes.
Is Zora’s Place accessible?
Yes! Zora’s Place is located inside The Aux Wellness Collective, which offers a ground-level entrance with no stairs and we have accessible restrooms on site.
If you have specific accessibility needs or questions before your visit, please email us at hello@zorasplace.com so we can make your experience as smooth as possible.
How can I support Zora’s Place?
Shop in-store or online via our Bookshop.org page
Attend our events
Spread the word to friends, family, and book clubs
Contribute to our ongoing crowdfunding campaign
Follow us on Instagram
What’s the best way to get in touch?
For general inquiries, email us at hello@zorasplace.com.
For author submissions, please complete our Author Submission Form.
For event rentals, visit our Private Event Rentals page.