The Indie Bob Spot: Night Heron Books & Coffeehouse

Night Heron Books & Coffeehouse - Laramie, WY

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Night Heron Books & Coffeehouse is located in one of those quirky college towns, in the historic downtown district of Laramie, WY. A place that has lots of independent and local businesses that give it that unique flair. Think Boulder, CO, Durango, CO, or even Iowa City, IA. Until this visit I'd never been to Laramie and now I'm ready to come back again.

This 2-level indie in an old, historic building is home to a healthy inventory of good, used books. The store is over-running with so much fiction that they can't keep up with it (do them a favor and go buy a couple!). Even though all the fiction is not in the data base, they have a good idea of everything available. Night Heron has a particularly strong offering of books relating to the Wyoming and Colorado region. Many of these used books they have are donated which is always helpful for the store's business margin. If you are looking for vintage or collectable editions, you'll want to check these sections. The store has been around for 13 years and even though things haven't always been easy, they continue to move forward. One of the best things for the business was when they added the coffeehouse right in the store. They're able to offer a variety of drinks and food, a very good part of the business here. The sidelines include greeting cards all done by local artists.

I didn't get to meet Ken K., the co-owner, on this visit but I had a great time talking to Justin and Greg. Even though this is a used bookstore, they still hold author events with the options of having them on the main level or upstairs. I absolutely love that there are lots of places to sit in this store on both levels and outside, with many tables as well.

A store doesn't make it 13 years without a devoted group of regulars and that's true for Night Heron. They also enjoy good business from tourists, especially during the summer. If you're one of those tourists driving here, you'll be able to park right on the street for free.

Night Heron on the right and Second Story on the left. A book lover's dream!

But the best thing here is the location right next door to another independent bookstore! You can visit two bookstores on the same trip (believe me, this is an advantage for me and a really big deal). Night Heron is right next door to the unrelated bookstore and business, The Second Story. They're even connected together on the 2nd floor of both businesses.

Good grief, readers, what are you waiting for? Saddle up for a trip to Laramie and enjoy two wonderful independent bookstores. Go to an indie and buy a book. Bonsoir.

CURRENTLY READING: A Spot Of Bother, Mark Haddon.

Find a book, get a drink and a pastry, then pick a seat inside or outside.

A great place to sit outside.

Looking into the bookstore from the front entrance. Some of you may recognize the celebrity who inadvertently turned toward the camera, a rare move. Yes, that's my mom.