Groundwork Books Collective
Founded in 1973 by UCSD students, Groundwork Books is a leftist, non-hierarchical, non-profit, volunteer-run cooperative bookstore and community space in San Diego. We are collectively owned and operated, with no bosses or managers, every volunteer has an equal voice in shaping our direction.
Our mission is to make radical literature and ideas accessible while fostering a safe, inclusive, and community-driven space. We offer affordable books on philosophy, political theory, feminism, art, and cultural critique, alongside free zines, pamphlets, and materials from activist groups.
Groundwork is more than a bookstore; it's a hub for organizing, learning, and connection. We host teach-ins, support groups like Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) and Cops Off Campus, and run projects like Books Through Bars, which sends books to incarcerated people.
The store is staffed entirely by volunteers from UCSD and the wider San Diego community. Whether you want to study, browse, or get involved, you're welcome here. Volunteers help with everything from running the register and stocking books to outreach, accounting, and community events.
Groundwork exists to challenge oppression and build alternatives, rooted in solidarity, education, and collective care. Come visit, get involved, and be part of our cooperative effort!
Leftist
Groundwork Books is proudly rooted in radical left-wing values. We believe in creating a welcoming space for people of all identities while rejecting systems of oppression like capitalism, racism, sexism, homophobia, and transphobia. Our mission is to cultivate solidarity and empower communities through education, dialogue, and collective action.
Non-hierarchical
At Groundwork, there are no bosses or managers; just people working together as equals. Every worker has an equal voice and the freedom to choose how they contribute. This ensures that our store remains a space where collaboration, respect, and autonomy guide the way we operate.
Non-profit
We do not seek profit for personal gain. Every dollar earned is reinvested into our stock and community initiatives, such as our Books Through Bars program, which provides books to incarcerated people. By keeping money in service of the community, we prioritize purpose over profit.
Cooperative
Groundwork is collectively owned and operated by the people who keep it alive. Decisions are made democratically, with every worker having a say in shaping the direction of the store. This cooperative model ensures shared responsibility, collective ownership, and true community-driven work.
Contact Us
Phone: (858) 224-2614
Email: groundworkbookscollective@gmail.com
Address: 0323 UCSD Old Student Center, La Jolla, CA
Hours
- Monday 10:00am - 5:00pm
- Tuesday 10:00am - 5:00pm
- Wednesday 10:00am - 5:00pm
- Thursday 10:00am - 5:00pm
- Friday 10:00am - 5:00pm
- Saturday Closed
- Sunday Closed
*Hours listed may vary during the summer and holidays. Feel free to email or call if you have any questions. :)
Interested In Volunteering?
Like what you see and share our values? Come join us as a volunteer at Groundworks! Visit us in person to learn more or reach out via the contact form below.