Galena Book & Paper - Galena, IL

Galena Book & Paper, Galena, IL

 

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Due to the pandemic over the last 12+ months you would think that there would be a dearth of new indies opening.  Granted, there are many that haven't survived or are struggling but since resuming my journey I'm 2 for 2 on bookstores that opened during the pandemic.  Galena Book & Paper has been open for about 6 months since October and I continue to be enthusiastic about all I have heard and read about these newbies.  As owner Jason told me, so far so good.  

Galena, IL is an ideal tourist destination with a historic main street that offers a variety of shops and novelties.  The one thing this picturesque town lacked was a new book store.  Problem solved with Galena Book & Paper that offers all new books and a few used books.  Customers can receive store credit or cash for the books the store will take.  This store is the missing puzzle piece to complete any community.  AND, speaking of puzzles (nice segue Indie Bob), that happens to be one of the popular sidelines you can get here.  As Jason told me, the sidelines are an important part of the business margin.  In addition to the puzzles, you can find a wide assortment of greeting cards, a variety of quirky office supply items (paper, pen, and pencil geeks will love this place), stationery, used games, reading glasses, cards that contain seeds that can be planted, and much more.  Galena Book has an excellent location, nestled on Main Street alongside many other fine local businesses.  A  beautiful, well-lit, one-level store with a creaky wooden floor make this a very comfortable space.  On the day of my visit, it was made all the more enjoyable by the light jazz playing in the background.  

The big news for Galena Book & Paper is still in its future, but not very far off.  During the spring, summer, and fall months, hoards of tourists descend on this beautiful town like river mayflies to visit the shops and the history.  The sidewalks are sometimes so packed with people they can't help but fall into some of the stores.  Call me Kreskin, but this is EXACTLY what I see happening at this terrific new bookstore.  Get yourself to Galena and check it out.  Congratulations Jason.  Go to an indie and buy a book.  Bonsoir.

JUST FINISHED:  Dear Edward, Ann Napolitano.  Story of a 12-year old boy who is the sole survivor of a devastating airplane crash.  His long road to recovery and the people who help him through the mental and emotional trauma of rebuilding his life.  I enjoyed this book.  Recommended. 

CURRENTLY READING:  Seven Kinds Of People You Find In Bookshops, Shaun Bythell. 

RECENTLY PURCHASED:  American Dirt, Jeanine Cummins.  Seven Kinds Of People You Find In Bookshops, Shaun Bythell.  

A beautiful store front in a historic building. 

 

 

 

 

Partial view of the historical Main Street district. 

Lots of window display space and a wonderful source of natural light. 

View looking into the store from the front entrance. 

Looking to the left as you enter the store. 

 

Many great table displays throughout the store and this is the one immediately to the right after entering. 

 

Display of new releases. 

Browse over to these shelves on the right side of the store.  I love how so many of the books are displayed with the covers out. 

If you know any Hobbit fans this boxed set would make a great gift. 

 

There have been some times during my journey where these have saved me in some stores. 

Variety of journals and notebooks. 

Kids will enjoy checking out the games available here. 

 

If you're an office geek, this is your display. 

These cards can be planted. 

 

Galena has a rich history and it's reflected in books like these about Lincoln and Grant. 

A great place to hang out in the children's section. 

I thought the used books in the store were excellent. 

 

Don't buy beer, buy the book and learn how to make beer!

 

Looking from the back of the store toward the front entrance. 

With Jason on the left, the fine owner at Galena Book & Paper.  Thanks for a great visit.