Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee & Books | A Black-Owned Bookstore in Philadelphia
Cool People. Dope Books. Great Coffee.
If you’re looking for a bookstore that feels like home—where the shelves are thoughtfully stocked and the space is built with intention—you’ll find it at Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee & Books in Germantown, Philadelphia.
Founded by academic and activist Marc Lamont Hill, Uncle Bobbie’s isn’t just a bookstore. It’s a space for conversation, culture, and community. On any given day, you’ll find people browsing shelves of Black literature, poetry, memoir, children’s books, and stories from across the African diaspora—while sipping some of the best coffee in the city.
More Than Just a Bookstore
Uncle Bobbie’s regularly hosts free author talks, community events, and discussions that center education, justice, and joy. It’s a space where people come to learn, connect, and build. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, the vibe is welcoming and real.
Their shelves reflect that same spirit. You’ll find titles across all genres, with a strong focus on Black authors, LGBTQ+ voices, disability justice, and books for young readers. One corner might hold a children’s picture book on resistance; another, a memoir about healing from trauma. The curation is purposeful—and it shows.
Uncle Bobbie’s also makes space for readers often left out of mainstream literary spaces. That includes a selection of books that explore mental health, relationships, and identity with honesty and nuance.
Books and Beyond
The store’s collection extends into a robust audiobook library, a wall of bestsellers, and a growing list of curated reading lists—including a spotlight on HBCU authors and books about Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Through its partnership with The Mann Center, Uncle Bobbie’s is part of the annual HBCU Festival, an all-day community celebration of culture, legacy, and excellence.
And yes—there’s merch. Good merch. Not the mass-market kind, but sharp, smart hoodies, mugs, and tees with messaging that reflects the values of the space. If you’ve ever wanted to gift someone a tote that says what you actually think—this is the place.
A Shared Mission
Row House is proud to work alongside Uncle Bobbie’s to expand access to books and publishing in communities too often left out of the industry’s center. We share a belief that literature can be a tool for liberation—and that bookstores like Uncle Bobbie’s are vital cultural institutions.
Stop in. Stay awhile. Buy a book. Or five. Grab a seat by the window. Have a conversation. That’s what Uncle Bobbie’s was built for.
📚 Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee & Books
📍 5445 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19144
📞 (215) 403-7058
🌐 unclebobbies.com