In Potrero Hill, Christopher’s Books has served as a cherished community hub for decades, and now, its future is being shaped by a familiar face.
Jackson Tejeda, who grew up frequenting the independent bookstore, has taken on a significant role alongside owner Tee Minot.
At just 28 years old, Tejeda is more than an employee; he is being groomed to inherit the beloved local bookstore, which Minot has owned since 1991.
Minot originally envisioned Christopher’s as a small, community-based bookstore, focusing on providing a diverse collection of children’s literature.
Her mission, rooted in connectivity, reflects in her longtime relationship with customers.
“I’ve known Jackson since before he was born,” Minot recounts, highlighting the deep community ties she has fostered over the years.
Those personal connections have been pivotal for Minot in understanding her customers’ needs.
She recalls sensitive moments, like selling books to families facing illnesses and celebrating milestones as children learn to read in the cozy kids’ section.
Christopher’s Books is not only a shop but a “third place” for its patrons, a space that transcends work and home life.
With a welcoming wooden bench out front, customers often enjoy reading their new finds before their tables are ready at adjacent eateries like Chez Maman East or Plow.
Minot’s journey with the bookstore began when she partnered with founder Christopher Ellison.
After Ellison relocated to New Zealand, Minot became the sole proprietor in 1996 and has since cultivated Christopher’s into a gathering spot for Potrero Hill residents.
Last year, the store earned a spot on San Francisco’s legacy business registry, celebrating its cultural significance in the community.
As she approaches retirement, Minot is eager to pass the torch to new energy, admitting she feels the toll of daily management decisions.
Tejeda’s journey back to Potrero Hill in 2020 coincided with the pandemic, prompting reflections on his next steps.
Returning from New York City, where he had been working in a wine store and teaching mindfulness at a summer camp, he sought opportunity and asked Minot for a position at the bookstore.
To his surprise, she expressed her interest in passing the business to him, and he enthusiastically agreed.
Now, as they work together, the two manage everything from curation and book buying to basic maintenance like sweeping and window cleaning.
Tejeda is keen to continue the approach that has helped Christopher’s thrive.
Under Minot’s mentorship, he aims to uphold the bookstore’s strong ties to the community while keeping Minot’s ethos alive.
“He has taken ownership of the store, but I’m still here as a mentor,” Minot adds, capturing the essence of their dynamic.
Both Tejeda and Minot prioritize creating a safe, welcoming environment for the community.
Tejeda emphasizes the importance of sharing his love for literature and reading with customers.
His latest book recommendation, “I Gave You Eyes and You Looked Towards Darkness” by Irene Solà, reflects his commitment to curating diverse, engaging titles.
The shelves at Christopher’s boast a unique range, from young adult romances to thought-provoking literary works, showcasing authors like Jesse Q. Sutanto and Katie Chandler.
The bookstore’s community involvement extends further, as it collaborates with local schools and organizations to promote literacy.
Moreover, the store has partnered with the Pritzker Psychiatry building to support youth wellness through reading materials.
Recently, Tejeda initiated a book club that has garnered interest from the community.
With 30 members on the email list, the club’s meetings have taken place at local venues like Ruby Wine and Goat Hill Pizza, making participation accessible.
Tejeda ensures that all community members are welcome, emphasizing the inclusive spirit of the club without any waitlists.
As he builds connections through reading, Tejeda embodies the mission that both he and Minot share: to foster human connection in a city where it can often be elusive.
In the digital age, Tejeda points to the dual lifelines sustaining Christopher’s: the loyalty of the Potrero Hill community and the thoughtful curation of titles.
“People come to Christopher’s for a little off-the-beaten-path recommendation,” he explains, underscoring the store’s unique offerings.
Space may be limited, but the significance of each title on the shelves is immense, catering to the tastes and curiosity of local readers.
Through their unwavering commitment to community, Tejeda and Minot are collaborating to ensure that Christopher’s Books remains a beloved fixture in the heart of Potrero Hill for years to come.
image source from：missionlocal
