The coming weeks could be make or break for Lexington’s Wild Fig Coffee and Books. The privately-owned-bookstore-turned-worker-cooperative has struggled to pay the bills, but supporters aren’t giving up on the popular meeting spot and activism hub.
Kathleen Muloma is a newcomer to Lexington. It didn't take her long, however, to find Wind Fig.
It "spoke to a need that I felt in my heart to be a part of a community that celebrated who I was and other marginalized identities in combination with things I love like books and coffee," she explains. "So I popped in here and automatically felt at home."
Muloma arrived as a volunteer during a critical time for the bookstore, as it looks to catch up on rent and loan payments while exploring another relocation. To drive up foot traffic, the store is holding a number of special events throughout the summer, ranging from monthly open mic comedy and poetry shows to weekly Drag Queen Story Times to a drumming session on Wednesday.
The bookstore hopes to build momentum, create more community surrounding the co-op, and preserve a sense of identity in the neighborhood.
"It's the black-owned coffee and bookstore in all of Kentucky," Muloma says. "So it's a pretty special place."
Wild Fig will also hold a tribute to author Toni Morrison, who passed away this week. Those interested can track bookstore events and funding progress on the Fig’s Facebook page.
