Amber Salazar, a 33-year-old entrepreneur from Colorado Springs, has created a one-of-a-kind mobile bookstore called Banned Wagon Books. Access to literary works that are often the target of censorship campaigns is a priority for the store. It is a first step to proactively address the growing crisis of book bans nationwide. With all of this, Salazar’s mission is to uplift these vital voices. As evidenced by his work to date, he is a leading figure in the continued struggle over intellectual freedom in America.
Banned Wagon Books showcases a wide array of controversial titles, from Maia Kobabe’s Gender Queer to Toni Morrison’s Beloved. Yet these books continually ignite fierce battles against censorship. These components are absolutely fundamental to bringing Salazar’s dream bookstore to life. Through her work, she hopes to create a world in which intersectional stories are at the forefront, told and celebrated by everyone.
Before opening her bookstore, Amber Salazar spent nine years developing her retail management expertise. There she developed a strong foundation in property and casualty insurance sales. Her experience as a business process owner has equipped her with the skills necessary to navigate the challenges of running a startup. Despite her diverse background, she describes opening Banned Wagon Books as “probably the hardest thing I have ever done in my life.”
Salazar’s inspiration to open her bookstore stems from her anger over the increasing number of book bans. She wrote about it with great emotion, saying they “make me furious to my very core.” She understands that, in this digital world we live in, folks are craving more authentic experiences and stronger community ties. Now, in the age of social media, real connection and community are in high demand,” said Salazar. He argued for a role of physical places such as bookstores.
Banned Wagon Books operates from various locations, including local wineries and coffee shops, allowing it to reach a wider audience. This pedestrian-first approach creates not just an eclectic shopping venture but a newfound sense of connection within the community. As a member of an Instagram group chat named “Bookstores Helping Bookstores,” she has seen how independent booksellers have come together to collaborate and share resources.
Perhaps the most important part of Salazar’s business model, though, is her dedication to social responsibility. On that latter point, 5% of her profits are donated to the American Library Association and other anti-book ban organizations. This dedication is a further testament to her belief in the power of literature to support intellectual freedom and amplify marginalized voices.
Though salty as you might expect for this crustacean advocate, she is realistic about the economic roadblocks that lie before her. And, no doubt, she will not pay herself a salary for several initial years. We can’t help her with that. Instead, she’ll pour her energy into growing her store. Yet, her resolve remains steadfast. She resolved to do it her way – however that might be – and opened a bookstore. In this manner, she could serve intellectual freedom in the U.S., but more importantly, her legacy is making a true difference in the world.
Amber Salazar has community allies in her corner. That’s why thousands of independent bookstores across the nation are standing against censorship and fighting for inclusivity in literature. For instance, Courtney Bledsoe, another bookstore owner, finds solace in the idea of “pouring a cup of coffee and reading all day,” highlighting how bookstores serve as vital spaces during challenging times.
Expansion has come quickly at Banned Wagon Books. Salazar is passionate about bringing incredible stories to curious kids and families at a price they can afford. Her journey reflects a growing trend among other new bookstore owners. Rebel Women Lit They are devoted to energizing the global literary ecosystem and championing freedom of expression.
