For more than 70 years, Macon Hardware stood as a beloved neighborhood staple in Bedford-Stuyvesant, run by the late Clara Hayes and known as much for its community spirit as its tools. Now, the historic space is turning the page, trading hammers and nails for books, art, and conversation.

Later this spring, the storefront will reopen as The North Star Books + Bar, a bookstore, café, and cultural space designed to honor the legacy of both the building and the community it has long served.

“The impact that she made and what she did for the community is how we’re going to continue our legacy,” said Rotimi Akinnuoye, partner at The North Star Books + Bar. “We’re excited to bring in the bookstore, bar, and coffee shop into the same space that has such a huge history.”

Inspired by the Harlem Renaissance, the concept comes from Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist and 1619 Project founder Nikole Hannah-Jones, who co-founded the space with the goal of celebrating Bed-Stuy’s deep cultural roots.

“This is a community that was one of the birthplaces of the Black arts movement,” Hannah-Jones said. “I just felt it was deserving of the type of space that would draw the greatest literary and artistic minds to be in community.”

The North Star Books + Bar aims to be more than a place to grab a drink or browse shelves. Neighbors will be able to participate in art and writing workshops, film screenings, and conversations with both local and international authors. A private speakeasy-style bar will offer a relaxed setting for discussion and connection.

For longtime residents, the idea is a welcome addition.

"Sounds like a good idea. Something to educate the people,” said Bed-Stuy resident Victor Craig. “Give them someplace to come and get books, read books, and learn their history.”

Hannah-Jones says the space will serve as a creative hub for writers at every stage of their careers, offering micro-residencies designed to foster learning, growth, and community engagement.

“When writers come, I want them to stay right here in the community,” said Nikole Hannah-Jones. “Teach a writers workshop, or tell people how do you get published? Really share and exchange knowledge and information.”

Nikole tells News 12 that by late spring, Bed-Stuy neighbors will be able to step into a new chapter, one that honors the past while creating space for stories yet to be written, at North Star Books & Bar.