Miguel Márquez San Juan, the founder of Libros, Café y Jazz, has left an indelible mark on Tijuana’s cultural landscape following his passing. He dedicated 16 years to creating a vibrant community space that intertwined literature, music, and social interaction. The bookstore, situated just two blocks from Avenida Revolución, has become a sanctuary for local residents seeking both solace and inspiration.
Walking through a narrow alleyway between an office supply store and an optometrist’s office, visitors are greeted by the soothing sounds of jazz. On October 18, 2024, the atmosphere inside Libros, Café y Jazz was alive with the tones of Miles Davis’ “Kind of Blue,” as Márquez read from the classic Mexican novel, Pedro Páramo. He enthusiastically recited, “Vine a Comala porque me dijeron que acá vivía mi padre, un tal Pedro Páramo. Mi madre me lo dijo y yo le prometí que vendría a verlo como es en cuanto ella muriera.” This dual celebration of literature and music encapsulated the spirit of Márquez and his vision for the bookstore.
The small, intimate shop is filled with an extensive collection of secondhand books and music, aiming to make literature accessible to all Tijuanenses. From used Manu Chao CDs to unique titles such as Bedtime Stories for Rebellious Girls, the store’s offerings are as diverse as its clientele. One of the standout features is a poetry vending machine, where for just 5 pesos, patrons can receive a poem, making literary art affordable and fun.
The need for accessible literature in Tijuana is evident. While there are public libraries in the city, they often do not allow borrowing, limiting the dissemination of literature. According to Daniel Togliatti, press coordinator at the Centro Cultural Tijuana (CECUT), the library’s mission extends beyond readers to include writers. “Part of the mission of the Central Cultural Tijuana is to share this space for writers from the region,” he stated. Togliatti emphasized the synergy between CECUT and Libros, Café y Jazz, noting that both institutions contribute to Tijuana’s artistic community in complementary ways.
“Márquez’s bookstore offers a unique platform,” Togliatti explained. “They may work at different speeds, but both are committed to fostering creativity in Tijuana.” This partnership with CECUT enhances the cultural fabric of the city, encouraging new voices and ideas.
Looking ahead, events continue to thrive at Libros, Café y Jazz. Márquez noted plans for a jazz performance the following weekend, expecting an audience of 20 to 30 people, further solidifying the venue as a cultural hub. The community has rallied around this vision, demonstrating that Libros, Café y Jazz is more than just a bookstore; it is a gathering place where art and culture flourish.
The legacy of Miguel Márquez San Juan will resonate beyond his years. His commitment to enriching Tijuana through literature and music will inspire future generations. Libros, Café y Jazz stands as a testament to his passion, inviting all to partake in the vibrant world he cultivated.
