safety
100 years speak volumes in this Fort Worth bookstore
By Nicole Williams Quezada at Fort Worth Report
· June 4, 2026
· 6 min read
Books can be found stacked on the floor, on carts and on top of other works at Barber’s Bookstore in downtown Fort Worth. Until recently Barber’s maze of military history, huntin’, dawgs and lit crit housed a copy of “Advanced Custom Rod Building” by Dale P. Clemens that the bookstore received in 19
Key takeaway “A lot of these books are like friends to me,” said Perkins, 68.
Why this matters in The Fort Worth
The fate of Barber's Bookstore, a downtown Fort Worth staple since 1925, has significant implications for the city's Cultural District. As the oldest independent bookstore in Texas, it not only boasts an impressive collection of 80,000 volumes but also contributes to the area's unique character. The store's potential decline could leave a void in the community, affecting not only book lovers but also local businesses and residents who value the district's eclectic charm. The challenges faced by Barber's, including a decreasing customer base and online competition, are a microcosm of the broader issues affecting small, independent businesses in Fort Worth. As the city continues to grow and evolve, it is crucial to consider the importance of preserving its cultural heritage and supporting local institutions like Barber's Bookstore, which has been a part of the city's fabric for nearly a century.
About this story
Original reporting by Fort Worth Report . The Fort Worth surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit Fort Worth Report . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: June 4, 2026 ·
Source: Fort Worth Report ·
Reading time: 6 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Books can be found stacked on the floor, on carts and on top of other works at Barber’s Bookstore in downtown Fort Worth. Until recently Barber’s maze of military history, huntin’, dawgs and lit crit housed a copy of “Advanced Custom Rod Building” by Dale P. Clemens that the bookstore received in 19
When was this published? This article was first published on June 4, 2026 by Fort Worth Report and curated for The Fort Worth readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Nicole Williams Quezada at Fort Worth Report. To learn more about how The Fort Worth selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The Fort Worth, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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