Jan’s - Beaverton, OR

Jan's, Beaverton, OR

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Calling all bookstore enthusiasts and small business supporters in the Pacific Northwest.  Time to mount up and ride!  Any bookstore like Jan’s that’s been on a run for 42 years deserves your attention, recognition, and support.  As current owner Lori C. told me, some of their regulars go all the way back to when the store was first known as Jan’s Paperbacks.  But now, the economy is not quite as good, especially here at Jan’s, and they need your support more than ever. 

The original Jan’s Paperbacks was a paperback trade store but today Jan’s offers hardbacks as well as a few new ones, mostly recent releases.  Keep in mind though that they can order any books you might request.  Customers can bring books in and receive store credit in return but Jan's has to be particular about what they take due to space.  Their romance section is especially strong.  Jan’s has an active event schedule and I was impressed to hear that they have 9 book clubs.  If you live in the area, ask about these and consider joining one that suits your interest, a great way to support the store.  Most of the sidelines they carry support local artisans and include jewelry, eco tote bags, vintage vinyl, games, soaps, and puzzles.  But the hot item here that’s flying out of the store is something called a comfy bowl cozy.  This is a bowl-shaped item made of cotton materials that is microwave safe and used to surround your dishware in the microwave.

To those of you who are regular customers at Jan’s, start spreading the news.  Visit the store often, bring a friend or a relative.  Introduce them to Lori and Stephanie, a bookseller, and help them to see what a good bookstore experience they can have when they come here.  Congratulations to Lori who just celebrated a 5-year anniversary of Jan’s ownership.  Help her make it 5 more with your continued and regular support.  Go to an indie and buy a book.  Bonsoir. 

JUST FINISHED:  The English Experience, Julie Schumacher.  Professor Fitger from Payne University doesn't like his students, his colleagues, his administration, or his ex-wife.  Yet, he's been told he's going to chaperone a group of students to England as part of the school's abroad program.  This cranky professor will leave you chuckling and wait until you see the students he's in charge of.  I love this author and also recommend Dear Committee Members.  Recommended. 

CURRENTLY READING:  The Night Always Comes, Willy Vlautin. 

Beautiful storefront and entrance. 

Get warmed-up for your visit by shopping before you even enter. 

Unique shaped display windows. 

The store hosts 9 book clubs.  Find one that's right for you. 

View looking into the store from the front entrance. 

Directly to the right after you enter is the checkout counter and a display of the new books. 

You'll want to add this to your purchase before you go. 

Take a few steps into the store and look to the right.  You'll see this long book aisle. 

I really like this display, a nice touch. 

Used book policy. 

Psst.  Check out the bottom shelf to manage your budget. 

A great place in the front of the store to sample a book. 

Locally sourced soap. 

Find these shelves to browse some classics. 

I call this the wall of appreciation.  Jan's is an important part of the community. 

Just a few of the items of local and regional interest.

They offer music on vinyl. 

Overview of the back of the store. 

Reusable eco-totes. 

Exactly. 

Looking into the back room of the bookstore. 

View looking from the back of the store toward the front entrance. 

A great deal on book club books. 

Tired of getting burned taking hot bowls out of the microwave?  You need one of these. 

If you know any Zane Grey fans, send them here. 

A mere fraction of the romance books available. 

With Lori, the fine owner at Jan's in Beaverton.  Thanks for a great visit.