Wheatberry Books - Chillicothe, OH

Wheatberry Books, Chillicothe, OH

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Chillicothe gets it.  Friends, relatives, and citizens are all on board with this wonderful new bookstore.  The store is approaching its 6 month anniversary, another newbie, and I got the feeling from Chelsea B., the owner, that things are going so well she's almost overwhelmed.  Well, get used to it Chelsea.  This is a cute-as-a-button new bookstore that has a bright future.  The store is off to a great start and I'm fortunate to see it in its infancy and hopefully I'll get to see it again down the line when it grows up.

Bookstore owners will nod agreeingly when they hear Chelsea's story about starting the business.  She detailed what every relative and friend did to make this happen.  She also discovered what many already know, the network of camraderie, brotherhood, and sisterhood among booksellers.  If you open a bookstore, these people are not only a great resource but willingly offer assistance for people like Chelsea.  "It takes a village" applies to the birthing and raising of a bookstore.

This is a charming, one-level store that offers all new books and a few used books.  I was pleasantly surprised by their great book inventory in the smallish space.  Chelsea describes it as kind of a hallway, but it works.  They have a wonderful children's section in its own room in the back of the store, and are working on establishing a regular story time.  There are few sidelines but they do have some great Wheatberry Books swag including t-shirts, hoodies, and coffee mugs, all produced locally.  Very indie.  I think this store probably had strong community ties before they even opened their doors last December 1st.  If they didn't, they're certainly established now in their short existence.  The store is tight with the local children's museum, the library, and some of the local schools.  These are all things that help bookstores sustain, grow, and promote, something that needs to happen in every town with a bookstore.  

Chelsea has a handful of terrific staffers, including Vanessa who I met on my visit.  They were so fun to meet and talk to.  But my favorite part of this store is its name.  Wheatberry is named for the simple design that was put on apple pies.  By her grandma.  What a great tribute and a great remembrance.  Chelsea gets it and so does Chillicothe.  Embrace this store, Chillicothe, and never let it go.  Go to an indie and buy a book.  Bonsoir.  

CURRENTLY READING:  Nobody's Fool, Richard Russo.  

RECENTLY PURCHASED:  I Am I Am I Am, Maggie O'Farrell.  The Heavenly Table, Donald Ray Pollock.  And one hip Wheatberry t-shirt.

Exterior view.  

Attractive display window with the store insignia.  

View looking into the store from the front entrance.  Discerning readers may recognize the celebrity charging through the store.  Yes, that's my mom.  

A great place to sit and sample a book.  

Display of store favorites.  

Contrary to internet opinion, I can find bargains in every indie I visit.  

My favorite picture in every bookstore.  

There is a great Wheatberry sign at the top of these shelves but I couldn't get it all in the picture.  You'll have to visit the store and see it for yourself!

Hey Outlander fans, here you go.  

Nicely organized Indie favorites display.  

Another nicely organized and timely display.  

Very good inventory of t-shirts, hoodies, and mugs.  

The store is continually working on adding events.  

View looking into the children's section.  

Another partial view of the children's room and a great place for kids to look at some books.  

You can find these shelves of used books at bargain prices in the back of the store.  

Looking from the back of the store toward the front entrance.  Chelsea is on the left and Vanessa on the right.  

Always consider checking out some of the books of local and regional interest.  

When you exit the store, turn left, walk 10 steps, and enjoy a coffee while reading one of the books you bought at Wheatberry at Paper City Coffee, another great independent local business.  

With Chelsea on the left and Vanessa on the right, two of the fine people you'll meet at Wheatberry Books.  Thanks for a great visit.