Bluestockings Cooperative, the radical bookstore and mutual aid hub on the Lower East Side since 1999, has closed its doors and will cease all operations by the end of the year, according to a statement posted to its website and social media.

“Our doors are closed for business,” reads the collective’s statement, posted Monday. “The daily operations are unfortunately no longer sustainable on multiple fronts.”

“The bookstore has been fighting a losing battle against debt for over two years now,” co-owner Raquel Espasande said in a text message. “Unfortunately, we frankly hit the wall.”

The closure comes after years of financial strain and mounting public controversy. In late 2023, the store’s landlord issued warnings citing what it described as unauthorized medical activity and unsafe

See Full Page