The Indie Bob Spot: Stillwater Books

Stillwater Books, Pawtucket, RI

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Regular readers know how often I expound on the amazing talents of booksellers and owners across the country. I often refer to them as rock stars or super heroes and I truly mean that. Up to this point I've never met any wearing a superman cape but if there were ever two who are worthy, it would be the husband/wife co-owners Dawn and Steve P. at Stillwater Books. They came to the rescue for the fine folks in Pawtucket with their wonderful bookstore 1 1/2 years ago. They performed this super hero feat of opening a bookstore and filling a void that had been missing for 25 years. I'm also happy to say that with this indie I continue to see a trend of successful new bookstores. Way to go, Dawn and Steve!

But their talents don't end with just the opening of a bookstore. Along with the bookstore they are the owners of Stillwater River Publications and are also the founders of the Association of Rhode Island Authors. All three of these are under one business umbrella which confirms what I see that bookstore owners are very creative and flexible with their business model. As publishers, they've published over 200 books by local authors. These relationships can be found throughout the store by the many books offered that are written by these authors.

The one-level store has a great corner location in downtown Pawtucket. It is adjacent to a very busy bus stop which brings in some of the customers. They offer new and used books along with an assortment of sidelines including greeting cards, earrings, and regional items. Different from other stores with used books, Stillwater acquires their books from estate sales, library sales, and other similar methods instead of taking in books from customers. The results are a very well-curated store of used books, most of which are in superb condition. If you can't visit the store in person you have the option of ordering online. Still don't see what you're looking for? Be patient. Many books are in storage and not displayed in the store yet.

This store is one of the 2019 Best of Rhode Island. Pay them a visit and find out why. Two knowledgeable and friendly owners in a wonderful bookstore offering an experience that you won't find online. Go to an indie and buy a book. Bonsoir.

JUST FINISHED: Educating Esmé: Diary Of A Teacher's First Year, Esmé Raji Codell. Candid and inspiring personal account of the author's first year teaching Chicago fifth-graders. Anyone who has ever taught will identify with the challenging student, the shy student, an incompetent principal, and little parental support. At times funny and at times maddening because of the system all teachers are up against. Very relevant. I really liked this book and this first-year teacher really had her stuff together. It's a very quick read. Highly recommended.

CURRENTLY READING: Libra, Don DeLillo.

RECENTLY PURCHASED: Providence Rag, Bruce DeSilva.

I couldn't resist this picture, a beautiful building that is part of the Pawtucket Library. This is very close to the bookstore so consider visiting here as well.

The bookstore sits on a great corner location.

Just inside the front door you'll see the logo and a variety of magazines.

Looking to the right from the front entrance.

After entering you'll go to the right and then this will be your view looking through the store.

Nice display of relevant regional topics just inside the entrance.

A few of the greeting cards available.

I was curious about this shirt and who Ben Mondor was. He was the long-time owner of the Pawtucket Red Sox, AAA affiliate for the Boston Red Sox. They have a long history in Pawtucket but now the affiliate has been moved to Worchester, MA, leaving an emptiness in what seems to me a very good baseball town. Hence the t-shirt.

These bookshelves located near the front of the store are mostly new books.

Items of local and regional interest.

Cold drinks AND snacks? Yes please, as I try out a book.

The store has an excellent sports section with many items relevant to New England.

This is Patriots country. This would be a great gift idea for a Pats fan who likes jigsaw puzzles.

You can't go wrong with a bin of .99 books.

Or with these bargain priced decorating books.

See the blue tabs in this picture? You'll find them throughout the store in every section. They designate books by local authors. This is a great way to find them.