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Business Description

Wooden Shoe Books is a collective-run bookstore that specializes in material related to anarchism and anti-oppression. Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, this all-volunteer shop is open most days, but it's best to call ahead to confirm their hours. The collective gets its name from a symbol of workers' control, the sabot. This French peasant practice involved tossing wooden shoes into factory machines to get a break after long hours.

The store was opened in December of 1976 by members of Philadelphia Solidarity, a group of labor-oriented libertarian socialists. The founders, along with others interested in working-class struggle, came together to form Wooden Shoe Books. The collective is committed to furthering the ideals of worker and neighborhood control, as well as the freedom of all people to live their lives free of oppression.

Wooden Shoe Books offers a wide selection of books on critical race theory, anarchist philosophy, and other topics related to social justice. The store also carries zines, buttons, and t-shirts that reflect the collective's ethos. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, and they're always happy to help customers find what they're looking for.

The ambiance of Wooden Shoe Books is relaxed and welcoming. The store has a cozy, intimate feel, with wooden bookshelves lining the walls and comfy chairs scattered throughout. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon browsing the shelves, chatting with staff or other customers, or attending one of the many events the collective hosts.

Reviews of Wooden Shoe Books are overwhelmingly positive. Customers appreciate the store's commitment to social justice and worker control, as well as its wide selection of books and friendly staff. Whether you're an avid reader or just looking to learn more about anarchism and anti-oppression, Wooden Shoe Books is a must-visit destination in Philadelphia.

Gift Ideas for Wooden Shoe Books

For the socially conscious bookworm in your life, Wooden Shoe Books has a wide selection of titles that are sure to delight. From classic works of anarchist philosophy to cutting-edge critiques of capitalism, there's something for everyone on the shelves of this collective-run bookstore.

If you're shopping for a friend who's interested in learning more about social justice, consider picking up a copy of Angela Davis's "Women, Race, and Class." This classic work of feminist theory explores the intersection of gender, race, and class in American society, and is sure to spark lively conversations and debates.

For the history buff in your life, Wooden Shoe Books has a wide selection of books on labor history, radical politics, and more. Consider picking up "A People's History of the United States" by Howard Zinn, which provides a perspective on American history that's often left out of mainstream textbooks.

If you're shopping for someone who's interested in visual art, Wooden Shoe Books has a selection of zines and art books that are sure to please. Consider picking up a copy of "Signal," a bi-annual journal of international political graphics and culture that features cutting-edge artwork from around the world.

And if you're looking for something that's both stylish and socially conscious, consider picking up a t-shirt or button from Wooden Shoe Books. These items feature bold, eye-catching designs that are sure to start conversations and inspire action.

No matter what you choose, you can feel good knowing that your purchase supports a collective-run bookstore that's committed to furthering the ideals of worker and neighborhood control. Shopping at Wooden Shoe Books is not just a way to find great gifts, it's also a way to support a community of activists and organizers who are working to build a better world.

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