05/27/2026
We believe bookstores should champion human creativity, not replace it.
From the beginning, The Secret Lantern Books & Games has had a simple policy: we do not stock AI-generated books or AI-generated art.
In light of recent statements from major corporations openly embracing AI-generated books and creative work, we feel it’s important to publicly say where we stand. We’re also joining bookstores across the country in taking a stance in support of human creators.
Our shelves are for human-made art.
That means: • No AI-written books
• No AI-generated covers or artwork
• No AI-generated comics or graphic novels
• No AI-generated marketing materials submitted by vendors
• No AI-generated content used in place of human creators
Stories matter because people make them. Writers, artists, designers, narrators, and other creatives deserve to have their work valued and supported.
We know thousands of books are released every year, and some AI-generated content may occasionally slip through unknowingly. If we discover a title or product that conflicts with our values, we will reevaluate it and remove it from our shelves.
This is not about public shaming. It’s about choosing what kind of creative community we want to support.
We choose people.
(Graphic created by John Hart, bookstore owner in Portland, and yes… a human.)
