<p>Great news and a very cheeky little article referencing Chapman's increasing diversity and determined outreach into the Latino Community and Mexican/South American culture. Chapman</a> University to Take Control of Libreria Martinez, Rename it "Libreria Martinez de Chapman University" - Orange County - News - Navel Gazing</p>
<p>Chapman has announced it is fostering this endangered bookstore/art gallery--a treasure in the heart of nearby downtown Santa Ana. Libreria Martinez has served as a cultural and community catalyst for years and is beloved by many. I have visited it many times! The owner, Ruben Martinez, is wonderful, and he has given his blessing to Chapman's move. This little bookshop started as an old-fashioned barber shop. It's a tiny powerhouse of intellectualism and energy that is worth preserving. Hooray for Chapman! ~gbird</p>
<p><<Ruben Martinez's barber shop in downtown Santa Ana was a gathering place for movers and shakers. In 1993, Martinez realized that the Latino community in California did not have bookshops that focused on their culture. His small collection of books featuring imported books and Latino and Chicano artists soon outgrew his barbershop. He moved his business around the corner to an empty storefront and turned his attention to the books. 'Librer</p>
This tidbit shows how important Rueben’s bookshop is: “Carlos Fuentes, Mexico’s leading intellectual, appeared here for his only book signing ever in the US.”</p>