Pella Books - Pella, IA

Pella Books, Pella IA

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If I were to compare this bookstore to a football player I'd call it the right guard on the offensive line.  The obscure player who does his job well that few know by name.  For me, Pella Books is that player.  This place has been under the radar and off the grid.  Consider that oversight corrected.  I'm here to tell you that this fine independent bookstore should be in the center of your radar and one of the places to put on your list of visits.

Pella Books offers all used books along with vintage and collectable editions.  I thought its inventory was as well curated as any of the other used bookstores I've visited.  Alfred P., the owner, told me that the vintage books don't sell as well as they used to but if you're a collector I would encourage you to visit this store or search their inventory on-line.  The store does daily transactions on-line which is a huge part of the business.  This is especially important in a town like Pella where the population is only about 10,000, making it challenging to bring in enough in-store customers to sustain business.  I also like that you can find printed music here for keyboard, voice, and a variety of instruments ( I SCORED a couple of finds!)(the music people GOT that!).

This is one of the few indies I've visited that has absolutely no sidelines.  No cards, no journals, nothing.  Nothing but books here and Alfred acquires them in a number of ways including tag sales, garage sales, and donations.  He'll offer you cash or credit for books that are in good condition.  I think its quite impressive that he also has a data base of everything in the store, something not found in all used bookstores.  The entire inventory is housed in a historic building that was originally a church back in the 1800s.  It's located downtown just off the square and has a great parking lot right next to the building. 

Aside from visiting the bookstore, you'll have a great time meeting Alfred and talking about the store and its history.  This place has been here since 1999 and I'm glad to hear that things are going fairly well, always a great sign and especially for indies in smaller towns.  

Make a point of visiting this charming town in central Iowa and take time to visit the outstanding  bakeries, diners, and coffee shops around the square.  Then take your visit just off the square to enjoy Pella Books and its owner who will be eager to meet you and talk about books.  There's no way you leave empty-handed.  Go to an indie and buy a book.  Bonsoir.

CURRENTLY READING:  Norwegian By Night, Derek B. Miller.  

RECENTLY PURCHASED:  84, Charing Cross Road, Helene Hanff.  The Haunted Bookshop, Christopher Morley.  The Case Of The Missing Books, Ian Sansom.  Sonata In Bb K 358, W. A. Mozart.  Rubank Elementary Method for Trombone, N. H. Long.  

When you spot this sign, you're in the right place.  

I love the historical building this bookstore lives in.  

History buffs will enjoy finding out about this building.  This plaque is posted just outside the entrance.  

One of the long book aisles on the right side of the store.  

View looking to the left from the front entrance.  

Front table display just inside the front entrance.  

This is the far right book aisle.  You'll be able spend lots of time browsing the shelves.  

I just love these book aisles.  If you don't see something you like on the shelves, check out the boxes full of books below.  

Collectors should visit this store.  

You'll EASILY be able to find a book here!

From the back of the store looking toward the front.  Perceptive readers may recognize the celebrity seated at the front counter.  Yes, that's my mom.  

I found a couple of printed music items here that I could use.  

Look around the store and the tops of the bookshelves for vintage editions.  

There must be a collector out there looking for this edition!

With Alfred on the left, the fine owner at Pella Books.  Thanks for a great visit.