top of page
Kind Words
Charles S. Finch III, M. D.
African-Americans don’t read nearly enough—but that’s why Elliott Monds’ work is so vital. His efforts to make rare, out-of-print works from top scholars accessible is essential for raising awareness and inspiring a new generation of scholars to carry that knowledge forward.
Delbert Richardson
Elliott is exceptionally knowledgeable and demonstrates relentless skill when it comes to procuring books and uncovering information. His dedication to research and sourcing is unmatched, making him a true asset to anyone seeking rare or meaningful materials.
If you are new to martial arts, or have been active for decades, you know how valuable a good book can be for learning or researching your style. But how do you sort through all those books to find one that is worth the price? My friend and big brother, Elliot Monds, has been not only practicing martial arts for decades, but he has also been collecting and acquiring books on many styles, systems, and teachers. Elliot knows great books, and how to find them! Rare and vintage books are his specialties and passion. Contact him, tell him what books or style you are looking for, or better yet, ask him for a recommendation, and I’m sure you will get martial arts treasures between two covers. And just between you and me, Elliot knows about way more subjects than martial arts!
- Dr Mark Wiley
Ray Hayward
Elliot Monds is a good friend and respectable human being. He has an amazing collection of books and magazines. Every time I need to find something, I call Elliot and he is able to secure it for me cheaper than I could on my own. I trust him and his work speaks for itself.
Lana J. Mitchell
Elliott’s Emporium showcases classic books and vintage documents from the past, offering a curated collection that honors and preserves cultural and historical depth. The launch of this illuminating site has been long awaited, and it fills a much-needed gap for those seeking meaningful, often hard-to-find works that deserve renewed attention.
Few bibliophiles have chronicled the African Diaspora and U.S. history with the dedication of figures like William Bolivar, Arturo Schomburg, Dr. Carter G. Woodson, John G. Jackson, and Runoko Rashidi. In that tradition stands Elliott Monds of Elliott’s Emporium—a devoted student of African history and culture. Since the 1970s, Elliott has curated an extensive, diverse collection of rare and classic works, offering meticulous care from manuscript to production. His work is not nostalgic but purposeful—shedding light on neglected historical narratives. Over 30 years of conversations with him have deepened my understanding of "Negroid Literature." Elliott’s Emporium offers a brilliant roadmap for any public or private library.
- James Brunson
"Study history to be prepared. I should say [a better knowledge of the past], in order that we may understand the present and be better prepared for the future."
Malcolm Little Shabazz, 1965
Meet Elliott
of Elliott's Emporium
Elliott Monds has spent a lifetime chasing stories others overlooked. What began with a single sentence in a 1969 martial arts magazine grew into a global search for rare books, posters, and prints that preserve forgotten histories. His collection is more than curated—it’s personal.
Get in Touch
Located in Des Moines, Iowa
Shipping available anywhere in the U.S.
bottom of page