When we first walked into The Black Reserve Bookstore in Lansdale, our goal was simple: photograph Shaykh Anwar Muhammad and capture the essence of his incredible business. What we didn’t expect was to be so drawn into the space—and the conversation—that we’d end up staying for almost two hours.
From the moment you step inside, The Black Reserve wraps you in its energy. Bookshelves line the walls, filled with literature that speaks to Black culture, history, and empowerment. Art, jewelry, and carefully curated cultural pieces add to the atmosphere, making it clear that this isn’t just a bookstore—it’s a sanctuary.
Shaykh himself is the heartbeat of the space. He greeted us like old friends, and within minutes, we were deep in conversation. His passion for literature, history, and community is contagious. He spoke about how he started The Black Reserve in 2017, wanting to create a space where people could learn, grow, and connect. As he put it, “When you come in here, you’re not in Lansdale anymore. You get whisked away into this magical land”.
That’s exactly how it felt. Our cameras sat idle as we listened to him talk about his journey—from his early love of books to his mission of representation. “You can’t be what you don’t see”, explaining why it’s so important to have Black authors and stories front and center. His dedication to creating a cultural hub goes beyond books—he hosts events, supports Black entrepreneurs, and fosters conversations that matter.
As photographers, we’re used to capturing moments, but this visit was different. The Black Reserve is the kind of place that demands to be experienced, not just documented. We were reminded of the power of storytelling—not just through a lens, but through words, shared experiences, and meaningful dialogue.
By the time we finally left, we weren’t just walking away with great photos—we were leaving with a deeper understanding of why spaces like this matter. The Black Reserve isn’t just a bookstore. It’s a movement, a gathering place, and a testament to the impact that one passionate person can have on a community. And if you go, don’t be surprised if you find yourself staying far longer than expected, lost in conversation and inspiration—just like we did.
Have a small business you would like featured or do you know of one you’d like to nominate?
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