The Chocolate Center
A Book Bar Experience Rooted in Black Culture
Books. Coffee. Cocktails. Community.
We’re building a space where stories are honored, conversations are sparked, and culture is centered.
Be part of it from the beginning.
The Chocolate Center (CC) was originally founded in 1983 in Birmingham, Alabama by Ethel Shuford, a librarian with a deep love for Black literature and a lifelong commitment to celebrating the voices, stories, and intellectual contributions of Black people. Created as a space for learning, affirmation, and community, The Chocolate Center reflected her belief that books could both educate and liberate.
Decades later, the vision continues through her daughter, E’Lana Shuford-Hopkins. After beginning her career in education and later navigating several professional transitions, E’Lana came to a clear understanding of her purpose: to bring The Chocolate Center back to Birmingham. Reimagined for a new generation, The Chocolate Center honors its original foundation while evolving into a modern cultural hub—where Black literature, meaningful conversation, and community once again take center stage.
About CC
Our Story
Founded in 1983 and reborn decades later, The Chocolate Center is a multi-generational legacy rooted in a love for Black literature and education. What began as one woman’s passion has evolved into a renewed commitment to storytelling, connection, and community—carried forward by the next generation with intention and purpose.
Our Vision
To be a cultural anchor in Birmingham where Black literature, coffee, cocktails, and conversation come together. The Chocolate Center envisions a space that honors Black stories—past, present, and future—while inviting community to gather, linger, and connect through books, shared experiences, and thoughtful hospitality.
Who We Are
More Than a Bookstore
The Chocolate Center is a curated book bar experience—blending literature, coffee, cocktails, and culture into one intentional space.
Here, you’ll find:
• A thoughtfully curated selection of books across genres and voices—with a strong emphasis on highlighting works by Black authors
• Coffee to start your day, cocktails to end your evening
• Conversations that matter
• A community that feels like home
This isn’t just a place you visit.
It’s a space you belong to.
Be There From the Beginning
This is more than an opening. It’s the start of something meaningful.
Join our founding community for:
• Early updates
• Exclusive events
• First access to experiences
• Behind-the-scenes of the build