Atlanta’s OutWrite Bookstore And Coffeehouse Closes Its Doors

Just a few months ago, in our salute to LGBT bookstores, we toasted Atlanta’s OutWrite Books and mentioned how its owners were going to have to close its current location in exchange for one with cheaper rent.

Well, it happened:  Tuesday night, the 15-year-old landmark at the corner of 10th Street and Piedmont held its “Last Tango,” with longtime customers and celebrated queer authors celebrating the shop’s storied history.

But there’s no word on a new location.

On Wednesday, the Georgia Voice reported:

Owner Philip Rafshoon confirmed the store is closing at its 10th and Piedmont location today. He said he could not say much more at this point. He said at the “Last Tango” event Tuesday night that there is no new location picked out yet. The store is open today and selling all of its infrastructure, including bookshelves, tables and chairs.

The Atlanta City Council presented Rafshoon with a proclamation crediting the store for its service to the community. Below is a clip of Rafshoon thanking customers, neighbors and friends for their support over the years.


We hope OutWrite rises again, bigger and better.

 Photos: Philip Rafshoon

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