Second Read Books - Decatur, AL

Second Read Books, Decatur, AL

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When I entered this bookstore, it was bathed in a buzz.  A buzz and an energy of early elementary kids and their mothers.  I thought, good heavens this place is packed how the heck will I ever browse for books?  The store had a definite energy and it didn't take me long to figure out it started at the top with co-owner Melinda who clearly has a passion, energy, and creative talent that pairs nicely with bookstore ownership.  This Melinda, she's a wise one.  What were all these kids doing here, I wondered?  A bookstore event of cookie decorating (Hey indie owners, how about a cookie decorating class for bookstore travelers?  I digress.).  What kid wouldn't be excited about this?  Melinda had spaces for 10, but twenty were there.  And of course many parents.  If these people didn't know about the bookstore before, they sure do now.  And do you know what happened after the cookie decorating event finished?  There was another one for older kids.  This is another super example of how bookstore owners get people into their store.  Nice job, Melinda and David.

Second Read Books is one year and four months old and Melinda confirmed to me that things are going very well.  It has a very visible location in downtown Decatur surrounded by many other businesses.  The store offers all used books along with some vintage editions but if you want a new book she can get it for you.  They are particular here about taking only books in good condition and will offer store credit or cash in return.  The store is fortunate that many customers will simply donate their books.  Everything is well-organized and very neat.  I especially liked all the creative decor seen throughout the store crafted by Melinda.  There are a few sidelines here including candles and t-shirts but my favorite were the baby blankets inscribed with a children's story.  The store is already host to book clubs and even though it is a used book store, is also host to author events.

Like many other indies, this new store has recently acquired a bookstore cat, Callie, a rescue.  Callie, along with Melinda and Nicole, a staffer, make this a must visit for locals and tourists alike.  This store is really taking off and if you haven't seen it yet, you need to come here and find out why.  Go to an indie and buy a book.  Bonsoir.

CURRENTLY READING:  An American Marriage, Tayari Jones.

RECENTLY PURCHASED:  Thunderstruck, Erik Larson.  The Gods Of Gotham, Lyndsay Faye.  

Enter!

I think this sentiment can probably be echoed by many in Decatur.  

The bargain bin before you go in.  

View looking into the store from the front entrance.  

My first clue that there may be a bookstore cat here.  

Callie is new on the staff at Second Read.  Obviously, she's had a tough training session to learn the ropes of a bookstore cat. 

A nice table display and nice example of some creative book art.  

I thought this book art on the wall was outstanding.  My picture doesn't do it justice.  Nice work, Melinda.  

Creative display and creative decor.  

A long wall of books.  Behind the red door in the back of the store is an events space.  That's where the cookie decorating was happening.  

If you get a book from Second Read, there is no due date to return it!

Find these shelves for a few of the new arrivals.  

You can find some great quotes posted throughout the store.  

Overview of the store from the back looking toward the front entrance.  

A few of the sidelines available.  

I don't think I've seen this yet.  A baby blanket inscribed with a children's story.  I love it.  

If you're a regular, make sure you're in the customer incentive program.  

With Melinda (and Callie), the fine co-owner at Second Read Books.  Thanks for a great visit.