She came to Kansas seeing a land of opportunity; now her just-launched bookstore opens doors for Black creatives

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WICHITA — Latasha N. Eley Kelly’s new storefront not only combines her love of books, education, and supporting local creatives, she said; Left on Read also serves as a unique community space that brings representation to Wichita’s literary scene.

The business’ logo even includes the tagline, Home of The Millennial Black Professor, TMBP Media, a nod to a broader vision from Kelly, also known as “Dr. Tasha.”

“The bookstore is an umbrella for all my work,” she said, which includes podcasting, workshops, and community programming that will launch from the space in January. 

Her podcast, Black in One Piece, where she spotlights Black professionals every month in the space, is a central focus, as well as live performances and author-centered events.

Click here to follow Left on Read on Instagram.

The Left on Read bookstore in Wichita; courtesy photo

Shoppers make early purchases from the just-opened Left on Read bookstore in Wichita; courtesy photo

Creatives come first

Kelly is especially passionate about spotlighting Black authors, she said. Due to a call to action on social media, she now has 11 independent Black authors participating in Left on Read’s consignment program with their books.

“Usually it’s a 60/40 split, but I’m doing 65/35 so authors keep more of their profit,” Kelly said. “I wanted to make it equitable for them while still running a business.”

Left on Read offers a premium plan that includes additional social media promotion and two hours for events like book signings, she noted. 

The bookstore also showcases local Black artistry. 

Kelly collaborated with artist Kynnedy Moore to create a mural for the space.

“I saw her paintings on Facebook and knew I had to hire her,” she said. “It’s about creating opportunities and exposure.”

A mural by artist Kennedy Moore inside the Left on Read bookstore in Wichita; courtesy photo

Turning a page

Latasha N. Eley and Corinthian Kelly, Left on Read; courtesy photo

Kelly transitioned to full-time entrepreneurship in October 2023 after a decade in federal student aid and higher education roles. Moving to Kansas from Virginia to be with her husband opened doors she hadn’t anticipated, she said.

“I always say it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made because there is a lot of opportunity out here,” said Kelly.

However, her experience with a toxic work environment catalyzed her pivot to entrepreneurship.

“I knew my mental health was suffering,” she said. “Something had to give.”

Through a Wichita-based retail incubator program, The Garages, Kelly pitched her bookstore concept. Though she ultimately didn’t join the program, she secured an independent space through a partnership with a board member.

By August, she had the keys to her new space.

The Left on Read bookstore in Wichita; courtesy photo

Building a community hub

Beyond books, Left on Read is a growing hub for connection and creativity, Kelly described. Through partnerships with organizations like Create Campaign – Spark Community Business Academy she hopes to create opportunities for underrepresented voices in Wichita.

In addition to grants, Kelly launched a successful crowdfunding campaign — the 1130 Campaign — encouraging supporters to donate $11.30 or more.

“We exceeded our goal of $1,130 by Nov. 30,” she said with excitement.

With Left on Read now open, Kelly is determined to make it a staple in the Wichita community, providing a platform for Black authors, artists, and creatives to shine.

Kansas has turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” she said. “There’s so much opportunity here, and Left on Read is just the beginning.”