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The popular bookstore Alicia Frazier '10 created in Medina, Ohio, offers readers an immersive experience.
Alicia Frazier '10 combined a love of literature and entrepreneurship to establish Black Cat Books & Oddities, a distinctive bookstore in Medina, Ohio. The BW communication studies and creative writing alumna has already expanded the store since its founding in 2023.
Black Cat Books & Oddities offers a transformative shopping experience, allowing readers to explore a unique side of the literary world. Housed in a pair of Victorian-style buildings, the bookstore features themed rooms designed to enhance the browsing experience.
With BW LaunchNET support, Frazier received her first microgrant in December 2023 to fund a Tribute to Teachers campaign, which helped local educators stock their classrooms with books.
Later, she was awarded a Burton D. Morgan Foundation Morgan Startup Grant, enabling her to open a second location. Like the original, the second store is housed in a Victorian building but offers more space, additional themed rooms and increased community engagement.
Frazier attributes her success to creating an inviting atmosphere. "People feel comfortable being themselves at our shop," she said.
"The most inspiring thing is giving back to my community," Frazier said. "I grew up in Medina and have always loved it. I'm happy to be someone who can invest in my hometown and create jobs."
Beyond books, Black Cat Books & Oddities serves as a safe, inclusive space, particularly for the LGBTQIA+ community. The bookstore also supports local authors and artists by showcasing their work.
Among those featured is BW LaunchNET self-published author Brooke Walburn and her book, "The Mind Field."
