Meet Roderick Talley Sr., The Founder Of A Relocated Las Vegas Bookstore Amplifying Diverse Voices – AfroTech
Roderick D. Talley Sr.’s bookstore has a new home.
Talley is the founder of R.D. Talley Books, a bookstore in Las Vegas. The business began with his desire to publish his own work. It grew into a platform that amplified other authors and made “positive-oriented books and artwork” accessible to all communities, according to information on his website.
“I’m a firm believer in ‘practicing what you preach,’ therefore I strive to live by example as a God-fearing man and apply Godly principles in my business practices, as well as my personal lifestyle. This has enabled me to create a safe, welcoming environment and attract people from all different backgrounds and beliefs,” a statement on his website reads.
In 2019, the business formally launched as a home-based publisher, then became an online retailer, and by 2023, it opened its first location in Las Vegas inside The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. Fox5 News reports it was the first Black-owned bookstore on the Las Vegas Strip.
On April 20, 2026, the beloved bookstore was notified it would need to vacate the property within 30 days, or the lease would be terminated.
“We were forced to relocate, unfortunately … We didn’t think that would happen,” Talley told Fox5 News. “It was definitely crushing. But I knew right off the bat, ‘Hey, I can be sad about this a little bit later. But I need to find a new place. We still got work to do,’” he told Fox5 News.
The community wrapped its arms around Talley and the bookstore, offering support and eventually helping the story break the news. Now, R.D. Talley Books is set to open in June at the Fashion Show Mall, where the shop will preserve its mission of amplifying diverse voices.
“We’re needed. We’re a space that’s needed. And it’s important for us to be here,” Talley expressed, per the outlet.
