The Indie Bob Spot: The Rogue Bookshop

The Rogue Bookshop, Beloit, WI

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If you’re a regular visitor to this terrific new independent bookstore in Beloit, WI, there is nothing I can tell you that you don’t already know. You already know that it’s a home run for the town and for the business community. You also know that owner Jamie A. is the perfect fit for bookstore ownership. Friendly, courteous, very knowledgeable, and conversant about books for you to consider. Best of all, this bookstore now fills a void that was missing for a town of approximately 36,000. Everything clicked for Jamie with this adventure including the perfect location downtown and a reasonable rent. So you regulars might be asking, yes, so what’s left? What’s left is that you need to help spread the word about this new bookstore since it’s only five months old. Your friends and neighbors need to discover the same wonderful experience that you have when you visit The Rogue.

The Rogue Bookshop offers new books, with some used in a bright, well-lit, gorgeous one-level space. For customers who bring their books in they can receive store credit in return or donate them. And The Rogue knows exactly what used books they have since they’re on their data base. Keep in mind though that the store is very particular about the used books they accept. If you want to purchase a book but can’t visit in person because you’re buried in snow they offer online purchasing through their website. This part of the business is showing positive growth as people discover it. The sidelines are numerous and if you need last minute gift ideas or stocking stuffers, this is your place. Lots of stickers, store merch, bookstore candles, puzzles, quirky socks, greeting cards, and much more.

Already, the store is very active with events including the store book club (their last meeting had over 30 people. Join the fun and tell everyone about your latest book), author events, and a yoga class right in the store.

Ok regulars, you know what to do. Spread the store and share your enthusiasm with a relative or a friend. This place and its owner are 5-star all the way. Congratulations Jamie. Go to an indie and buy a book. Bonsoir.

JUST FINISHED: Precipice, Robert Harris. This is the same author who wrote the book, Conclave, that went on to become the popular movie of the same name. This work of fiction has MANY threads of truth about Great Britain shortly before its entry into WWI. Prime Minister Asquith was involved in an affair with Venetia Stanley, 30 years his junior, and includes the many letters exchanged between the two. Were the Prime Minister's decisions for Great Britain's entry into the war compromised by this distraction? The characters in this book were all real and I enjoyed looking them up as I read. Recommended.

CURRENTLY READING: Every Valley: The Desperate Lives and Troubled Times That Made Handel's Messiah, Charles King.

RECENTLY PURCHASED: Theo of Golden, Allen Levi.

Another view of the storefront.

The entire front of the store is a display window, great for natural light.

View looking into the store from the front entrance.

Attractive display immediately to the right after entering.

This unique and creative wall is on the right side in the front of the store. I've seen lots of book art but this display is especially impressive.

The perfect seasonal touch.

Overview of the left side of the store.

Table display of popular and recent releases.

Some of these popular used books might already be gone by the time you see this.

Useful shopping information.

The long wall of books on the left side of the store.

The books on this creative display were practical and useful.

Books of local and regional authors. Wisconsin has many good authors that I've discovered and enjoy reading.

The popular "blind date with a book" promotion found in many bookstores with very attractive wrapping.

Very often true.

Ok, I've been told that Beloit had a bad reputation many years ago so now these slogans can be found everywhere. I can say that in my short time in Beloit, it was fantastic. Everyone I met was wonderful and I enjoyed several different businesses where everyone was equally kind and courteous. It makes me want to visit again. Way to go Beloit!

The stickers are hot and these are just a few that are offered.

Take time to browse the staff picks.

If you see it in a bookstore and you like it, GET IT! Like these bookstore candles.

Proceeding to the back of the store.

Assorted greeting cards can be found as you head into the back room.

Much of the back room is devoted to the children. This is the left side of that room.

Available at the checkout counter.

The right side of the children's room.

You'll also find some adult UK editions in the back room.

Another angle of the children's area.

This is a really cool, somewhat hidden, reading corner for kids. A comfy little nook in the children's area with a really impressive mural you should check out, painted by Jamie's brother.