The Bookstore At Fitger's - Duluth, MN

The Bookstore At Fitger's, Duluth, MN

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One of the best things about this bookstore is that it's located in independent business heaven.  It is in the historic Fitger Brewing Co building near downtown Duluth.  The building is now a hotbed of several independent businesses including a hotel, The Boat Club restaurant, and a variety of retail offerings.  It seems very upscale so my concern for the bookstore was if they were able to meet the lease and stay in their great location.  I'm happy to say that this is not a problem thanks to the owner of the building who ONLY leases out space to independent businesses, no chains.  An understanding of "buy local, shop local" is in place with an owner who supports this trend.  Way to go, Fitger's!

History is everywhere in this building.  

Even though the "buy local, shop local" theme is strong here, tourists are a very important part of The Bookstore's business.  These customers will certainly find a store devoted to meeting their preferences.  The store offers all new books but also has a wide variety of sidelines that tourists will find appealing.  Everything from touristy postcards to unique snow globes with local scenes.  There are also many books of regional and local interest by local authors.  You'll find items that are offered in other indies such as greeting cards, book themed socks, (selling well!), Fitger's clothing and gear, and a large selection of candy.  This 3-room store has one room devoted entirely to children and I thought it was especially good.  Children's books of all kinds and children's sidelines of all kinds.  Kids will love this room.  The store's business can be challenging in the winter months but the holiday season brings in large numbers of tourists who really give the store a boost.

The store is a veteran; its been here for 25-30 years and as Jennifer J., the store manager told me, things are phenomenal.  Yet another testimony that I've heard repeatedly on my travels about the success and resurgence of independent bookstores.

Everyone I meet along my journey is simply the best and it is no different at The Bookstore At Fitger's.  Jennifer along with Anna and Amanda were terrific to meet and visit with.  I can see why tourists flock to this place with people like these.  

I think Duluth is a great town with a lot to offer and I enjoyed my time here.  Consider a trip here when planning your next vacation and pay a visit to all the fine businesses in the Fitger Building.  Make sure The Bookstore At Fitger's is one of your stops.  Go to an indie and buy a book.  Bonsoir.

JUST FINISHED:  The Wright Brothers, David McCullough.  Historical accounting of the Wright brothers and the birth of our country's pursuit of air travel.  Thoroughly researched, and includes all the challenges, the involvement of the family, and overcoming the ridicule of a skeptical public.  I loved this book, very informative and interesting.  Recommended.  

CURRENTLY READING:  The Good Nurse, Charles Graeber.  

RECENTLY PURCHASED:  Tangerine, Christine Mangan.  

Exterior of the beautiful and historic Fitger's building, the former brewery of Fitger's beer is now a thriving retail center.  And they still brew beer.  

Fitger's Beer.  

Enter here and proceed downstairs to the bookstore.  

Another view of the historic building.  

The bookstore is located on the lower level.  

One of the expansive display windows. 

Before entering you can browse some bargains on this rack.  

View looking into the store from the front entrance.  

Looking to the right from the front entrance.  This room to the right is loaded with items for kids.  

Looking to the left from the front entrance.  

A very nice variety of tote bags and backpacks.  

The store offers lots of puzzles and these are just a few.  

Tourists will want to choose from a variety of Fitgers and Duluth postcards.  

A nice wall display of staff picks.  

A great section for tourists visiting the Duluth area.  

The candy at the check-out counter will go nicely with the book that you get.  

A portion of the books of local interest and by local authors.  

These neatly arranged beanie babies mark the entrance into the children's room.  

Head to the right after entering the store and you'll find this room, the children's section.  

Kids will find lots of books they'll like.  

Find this display of recent releases in the room to the left.  

This room to the left of the front entrance has books and lots of Fitger's swag.  

A fine assortment of magazines.  

A great selection of greeting cards in the room to the left.  

Some really nice Fitger's wear.  

An overview of the room to the left of the main entrance.  

With Anna on the left and Jennifer on the right, two of the fine folks you'll meet at The Bookstore At Fitger's.  Thanks for a great visit.