Borderlands Books
| Company type | Independent bookstore |
|---|---|
| Industry | Retail (Books) |
| Founded | 1997 |
| Founder | Alan Beatts |
| Headquarters | San Francisco , United States |
| Products | Books (science fiction, fantasy, horror) |
| Website | borderlands-books |
Borderlands Books is an independent bookstore located in San Francisco, with a focus on science fiction, fantasy, and horror genres.
History
Established in 1997 by Alan Beatts, Borderlands originally operated as a used bookstore situated in Hayes Valley, initially stocked with Beatts' own collection alongside inventory acquired from Know Knew Books in Palo Alto. In 2001, the store moved to its current address at 866 Valencia Street in the Mission District. Soon after relocating, Borderlands was acknowledged by the SF Bay Guardian for its significant cultural contribution to the local community.
On February 2, 2015, owners Alan Beatts and Jude Feldman revealed their intention to close the bookstore due to financial difficulties stemming from San Francisco’s implementation of a $15 minimum wage law—a policy they nevertheless endorsed. Following this announcement, they initiated a sponsorship drive aiming to secure 300 patrons each pledging $100 to keep the store operational, a goal that was rapidly exceeded.
In November 2017, Borderlands further solidified its presence in San Francisco by acquiring a permanent site at 1377 Haight Street, taking over the location formerly occupied by Recycled Records.
Events
Borderlands actively engages in horror and science fiction conventions and organizes events featuring prominent authors such as Lou Anders, Chris Roberson, John Varley, Jacqueline Carey, John Picacio, Graham Joyce, Patricia McKillip, Paolo Bacigalupi, David Drake, Randall Munroe, Steven Erikson, and Cory Doctorow. These activities strengthen the bookstore’s market position by fostering direct connections with its core audience.
Between 2001 and 2011, Borderlands hosted the anniversary celebrations for Tachyon Publications, which included the presentation of the Emperor Norton Awards. These awards honored outstanding innovation within science fiction, fantasy, and horror literature, recognizing both creators and their works, thereby enhancing the store’s industry standing and competitive edge within its specialized market.
Other Information
In 2008, Alan Beatts and Jude Feldman received a joint nomination for a World Fantasy Award under the World Fantasy Special Award: Professional category. The following year, Beatts expanded operations by opening Borderlands Cafe adjacent to the main bookstore.
By 2011, three Sphynx cat mascots named Frost, Hudson, and Newt were part of the store’s identity, succeeding the original mascot Ripley who passed away in 2010.
In June 2020, serious accusations against Beatts emerged via social media and local news outlets, alleging physical and sexual assault, threats of violence, and abusive conduct. As a result, several authors withdrew their support and discontinued holding events at Borderlands.
External links
- Articles with short description
- Bookstores in the San Francisco Bay Area
- Companies based in San Francisco
- Independent bookstores of the United States
- Science fiction culture
- American companies established in 1997
- Bookstores established in the 20th century
- Retail companies established in 1997
- 1997 establishments in California
- 5
- Companies of the United States by year of establishment