Alan Cumming & Bowen Yang Support Brooklyn Bookstore

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Tuesday, March 3rd 2026 at 17:19 GMT by The Hollywood Reporter
      Locales: UNITED STATES, UNITED KINGDOM

Brooklyn, NY - March 3rd, 2026 - In a heartwarming display of community support, actors Alan Cumming and Bowen Yang are joining forces to assist Books Are Magic, the acclaimed independent bookstore in Brooklyn, New York, as it navigates recent financial hardships. The duo is launching a limited-edition tote bag and hosting a special event on March 14th, with all proceeds directly benefiting the bookstore.

Books Are Magic, owned and operated by author Emma Straub, has become a cornerstone of the Brooklyn literary scene since its opening in 2017. Known for its curated selection, vibrant atmosphere, and strong community focus, the bookstore has consistently championed diverse voices and fostered a love of reading. However, like many independent businesses, Books Are Magic has faced increasing pressures in recent years, particularly regarding escalating rent and rising operational costs. Straub has openly shared these challenges with her followers on social media, sparking a wave of concern and prompting a groundswell of support from book lovers nationwide.

Cumming and Yang, both long-time advocates for independent bookstores, responded to Straub's call for help with a unique and creative initiative. They collaborated on the design of a limited-edition tote bag featuring the Books Are Magic logo. The tote, a stylish and practical accessory, is expected to be highly sought after by fans of the actors and the bookstore alike. The tote bags are currently available for pre-order on the Books Are Magic website, with shipping expected to commence immediately following the March 14th event.

The March 14th event at Books Are Magic promises to be a lively and engaging affair. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session with Cumming and Yang, gaining insight into their careers, passions, and commitment to supporting the arts. A book signing will follow, allowing fans to connect with the actors and secure signed copies of their favorite works. Details about how to participate in the signing and the event logistics are available on the Books Are Magic website and social media channels.

This collaboration comes at a critical time for independent bookstores across the country. The rise of online retailers and the dominance of large chain stores have created a challenging landscape for smaller businesses. Independent bookstores often serve as vital cultural hubs, offering personalized recommendations, hosting author events, and fostering a sense of community that is difficult to replicate online. Their survival is crucial not only for book lovers but also for the health of local economies and the preservation of cultural diversity.

Emma Straub expressed her profound gratitude for Cumming and Yang's support. "We are so grateful for Alan and Bowen's generosity and support," she stated in a press release. "It means the world to us and to the community that we've built around Books Are Magic." Straub also emphasized the importance of continued community involvement, encouraging patrons to shop at the store, attend events, and spread the word about Books Are Magic to their friends and family.

The support from high-profile figures like Cumming and Yang is expected to significantly boost awareness of the challenges facing independent bookstores and inspire others to take action. This initiative serves as a powerful reminder that supporting local businesses is an investment in the cultural fabric of our communities. Book lovers hoping to contribute to the ongoing success of Books Are Magic can purchase the limited-edition tote bag, attend the event on March 14th, or simply visit the store and browse the carefully curated selection of books.

For those unable to attend the event in person, Books Are Magic also offers a robust online store and a subscription service, providing opportunities to support the bookstore remotely. This collaborative effort is a testament to the power of community and the enduring appeal of independent bookstores in the digital age. The bookstore plans to provide regular updates on its financial status and future initiatives on its social media accounts.