Miguel Márquez San Juan, the founder of Libros, Café y Jazz, is being remembered for his significant impact on Tijuana’s cultural landscape. Operating the bookstore and café for the past 16 years, Márquez has created a unique gathering place that melds literature, music, and community spirit. He passed away on October 18, 2024, leaving behind a legacy that resonates deeply within the local arts scene.
Located just a short walk from Avenida Revolución, Libros, Café y Jazz is nestled between an office supply store and an optometrist’s office. As visitors enter the quaint alley leading to the store, the sounds of jazz music replace the city noise, inviting patrons into a serene environment. Inside, the atmosphere is filled with the gentle hum of conversation, the aroma of coffee, and the comforting presence of books.
Márquez often spent his time in the bookstore, surrounded by shelves stacked floor-to-ceiling with used books. On a typical day, he could be found playing jazz classics like “Kind of Blue” by Miles Davis while reading passages from celebrated Mexican literature, including the iconic novel, Pedro Páramo. The film adaptation of this novel, featuring Manuel García-Rulfo, is set to premiere on November 6, 2024, adding to the cultural significance of the moment.
The bookstore has become a cherished resource for Tijuana residents. “There were big bookstores, the classics here, but affordable books were lacking,” Márquez noted. His mission was to provide accessible literature, offering everything from secondhand music CDs to collections like “Bedtime Stories for Rebellious Girls.” One unique feature is a poetry vending machine, where customers can purchase poems for just 5 pesos.
While Tijuana boasts public libraries, few provide the opportunity to borrow books. According to Daniel Togliatti, press coordinator for Central Cultural Tijuana (CECUT), the local library serves not just as a reading space but also as a hub for writers. “Part of the mission of CECUT is to share this space for writers from the region,” Togliatti stated. He emphasized that both CECUT and Libros, Café y Jazz contribute uniquely to the creative community in Tijuana.
Togliatti likened the collaborative efforts of the two institutions, noting, “In this global situation, we work on four wheels, and they own a bicycle, but they are in the same place. Sometimes at the same velocity. Sometimes we share the road.” This metaphor highlights the synergy between CECUT’s broader cultural initiatives and the intimate community engagement fostered by Libros, Café y Jazz.
Márquez’s contributions extended beyond literature and music; he frequently hosted events, such as jazz performances that attracted 20 to 30 attendees. These gatherings not only provided entertainment but also strengthened community bonds. “For example, this coming Saturday, we are presenting a jazz group here,” he mentioned with enthusiasm.
The impact of Miguel Márquez San Juan on Tijuana’s cultural identity cannot be overstated. His vision for Libros, Café y Jazz has enriched the lives of many, fostering a space where literature and music converge in a vibrant community setting. As Tijuana continues to evolve, the legacy of Márquez will undoubtedly endure, reminding residents of the importance of culture and connection in their daily lives.
