That Book Store - Wethersfield, CT

That Book Store, Wethersfield, CT

(Like The Indie Bob Spot on Facebook and follow The Indie Bob Spot on Twitter)

I love to hear the stories of bookstore owners, their families, their staff, about how their journey to the present happened.  I can say that no two paths are the same and all are as unique as the bookstores I visit.  For store owner Karen O. and daughter Belle it began at home when Belle was back from college for a holiday.  Karen was increasingly frustrated with her job in nursing as well as enduring a daily commute in horrible traffic.  Belle did not enjoy her semester of college and was homesick.  So with little business experience, mother Karen decide she was opening a bookstore and told Belle she was going to join her.  That Book Store was born in July of 2018 and now, slightly over a year later, its all systems go for a bright, cheery, and happy bookstore with a happy mother and daughter.  Congratulations Karen and Belle!

One of the nice things about the store's building is that it was pretty much move-in ready.  It was formerly a veterinarian clinic and then was given a cleaning and makeover, both of which worked perfect for the bookstore.  From the outside it looks like a new building but in reality it dates back to the 1930s.  I especially like the large windows around the store for lots of light.  That Book Store offers all new books and a few used ones, all of which are inventoried.  As Belle told me, the sidelines are an important part of the business and interestingly enough, the bookmarks are some of the better sellers.  They also offer greeting cards, journals, and mugs and glasses to name a few.  They recently acquired a liquor license and now offer beer and wine, much of it produced locally.  I think this is huge for any bookstore able to do it.  What a great thing to offer beer and wine at author events, bookclubs, and trivia night. 

What else?  A big red chair and a bookstore cat.  Belle told me they wanted something to give the store a feeling of cozy and comfort and what is better than a big, over-stuffed red chair to sit down in and read a book (and the wine doesn't hurt either!).  Perfect!

I was disappointed I didn't get to meet Karen, but Belle was terrific to meet and tell me their story.  I see a bright future for this store and now it's up to you, Wethersfield, to embrace these two women and their dream and support the shop local, buy local slogan for a vibrant community.  Go to an indie and buy a book.  Bonsoir.

JUST FINISHED:  Filthy Rich, James Patterson.  The unbelievable story of Jeffery Epstein and the lesson learned that wealth corrupts and wealth allows those who possess it to operate above the rule of law.  The depth of corruption among the wealthy of this nation is truly incredible.  I found this book to be intriguing but it is definitely troublesome and honestly disgusting.  All of the information in this book was uncovered and published before Epstein's recent exposure in the media.  Recommended.  

CURRENTLY READING:  What We Talk About When We Talk About Books, Leah Price.  

RECENTLY PURCHASED:  Gods Of Howl Mountain, Taylor Brown.  

I think this is when books says, "Excuse me, my eyes are up here!"

A large and well-stocked display window.  

Books schmooks, let's go!

Every single bookstore.  

View looking into the store from the front entrance.  

View looking to the left from the front entrance.  Notice the large windows that provide lots of natural lighting.  

Looking to the right from the front entrance you'll find the check-out counter and the area where you'll place your drink order.  

Great bargains just inside the front entrance.  Why go online when you can visit here.  

A very lovable romance display.  

A few of the greeting cards available.  

Directions:  Buy a tote bag.  Buy a mug to place in the tote bag.  Browse the store for some books to put in the tote bag.  Order a glass of wine, find the big red chair, sip and read.  

Assortment of young adult fiction.  

Partial view of the children's section.  I still can't get over these wonderful windows.  

The perfect place for a couple of small readers.  

I don't think I've visited a bookstore that doesn't offer bargains.  

Just a few of the books offered of regional and local interest.  

Consider buying an autographed book from a favorite author.  

Partial view of the cafe seating area.  I see you big red.  

A variety of snacks and beverages to enjoy at any event or whenever you visit.  

More and more bookstores are offering jigsaw puzzles.  

Overview of the cafe seating area.  

Make sure you visit the back wall.  

AHH!

If you're a Harlequin fan and need large print for your vision, snap these up.  

Partial drink menu.  

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

If you pick a book because of the cover, consider picking your drink by its label.  

Romantic book art.  

With Belle, one of the fine booksellers you'll meet at That Book Store.  Thanks for a great visit.