Boneshaker Books - Minneapolis, MN

Boneshaker Books, Minneapolis, MN

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Every independent bookstore I've visited on this journey has been nothing less than welcoming, not only to me but people off all stripes, beliefs, ethnicities, and genders.  This is something generally accepted and encouraged at indies, some even make a point of mentioning it in a door or display window.  But here at Boneshaker Books they wear their heart on their sleeve in such a transparent manner that it leaves no doubt that ALL are welcome here.

Just like people, bookstores come in all varieties and this is another variety of independent bookstore.  I would define this store as an alternative/politically left niche indie.  A store that offers new and used books by diverse authors and subject matter that you don't always see in the other bookstores.  They also have an excellent assortment of zines, self-published collections of comics, art, social commentary, and more.  These are great creative outlets for local authors and artists.  And if these offerings don't interest you, they also carry books that can be found in any other bookstore.  The store has a few unique greeting cards, journals, and buttons, most created locally, but other than that its mostly about the books.

What sets this store apart from other operations is its organization and structure.  It is completely non-profit and run totally by volunteers, over 30 of them.  There is no store manager or owner.  Decisions are made by committee or sometimes by those who have been involved with the store the longest.  The store is a beacon to the community it is located in, the Seward neighborhood, and has been in this space and in business for about 7 years.  Occasionally, they'll have fund raisers to help generate a little more revenue.  Its non-profit status is meant to be a benefit for the neighborhood it's in.  When you see it and its location, it has the feel of a true neighborhood bookstore.  What they make in their sales is what they use to buy more books.

I met three of Boneshaker's fine volunteers, Jacquie, Peter, and Kat, during my visit.  They really helped me to understand the store's mission and everything else that goes on including various events they host, and bookclubs, just like all other indies.

So if you're in the Twin Cities and want to support a good cause, go to Boneshaker Books and purchase a book.  Or heck, maybe even sign-up to volunteer, also a good cause.  Be part of the solution, not part of the problem .  Go to an indie and buy a book.  Bonsoir.

JUST FINISHED:  The Good Nurse, Charles Graeber.  If you like page-turning thrillers that are true stories, this is your book.  A mild-mannered nurse starts doping IV bags on patients in hospitals which causes many deaths in many hospitals.  The media dubbed him the "Angel Of Death."  A very tough crime to collect evidence, arrest, and convict.  An absolutely chilling story.  Recommended.  

CURRENTLY READING:  Florida, Lauren Groff.

The building that houses Boneshaker Books.  

The main entrance and the posted well wishes to the Muslim community.  

Just inside the entrance before entering the store is a great community and events space.  

An empathetic sentiment.  

A magnetic message board just inside the entrance.  Post an opinion!  

View looking into the store from the front entrance.  Alert readers may notice the celebrity browsing the front table display.  Yes, that's my mom.  

Just inside the entrance you'll find some unique greeting cards.  

One of the greeting cards available.  No matter where you live, consider sending your political representative a message.  

A relevant display for LGBTQ month.  

Table display of books by women of color.  

A portion of the books available by local authors.  

Find out what the Boneshaker Book Club is reading.  

Ask about the skeleton crew.  

Toward the back of the store you'll find used books at great prices and for a good cause.  

Find a button to express yourself.  

A portion of the children's section.  

Another view of the children's section.  

An overview of the store from the back looking toward the front entrance.  

I would love to do this.  

Nice table display of new releases.  

From L-R, Yours truly, Kat with Lawrence, Jacquie, and Peter, some of the fine folks you'll meet at Boneshaker Books,  Thanks for a great visit.