Rhody Gem: Community-Owned Federal Hill Heartleaf Books Stocks Titles You’ll Love

February 2025

Posted

Heartleaf Books

Co-op Bookstore

 

What it is:

Rhode Island’s only community-, employee-, and queer-owned cooperative bookstore.

 

Where to find it:

Head west on Atwells Avenue past the bustling Federal Hill dining scene and watch for the shop window with a display of books and gifts on the corner of Vinton Street. Step inside and be greeted by cat-manager Penny! 

 

What makes it a Rhody Gem?

From weekend pop-ups at markets to brick-and-mortar co-op, Heartleaf Books has grown into a haven for readers seeking new releases, queer staples, genre fiction like fantasy and romance, local authors, and more. Sisters and librarians Caroline and Mads Vericker take care in curating titles, both new and used, for a wide range of interests and ages. “We saw a need for a bookstore in Federal Hill,” says Mads, who lived in the neighborhood when they founded Heartleaf. “For such a visibly queer city, Providence didn’t have a bookstore that centered queer and diverse stories.” The community-owned business model means customers can buy a share in the business in exchange for discounts and special members’ nights. “We always have that book you can’t find anywhere else in stock here,” says Caroline. Need help choosing? “Sometimes when I’m torn between what books to buy, I ask Penny what she recommends and buy the book she steps on!” says frequent customer Ashley Nutini.

 

Heartleaf Books

374 Atwells Avenue

HeartleafBooks.com

@heartleafbooks

 

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