Blue Cypress Books - New Orleans, LA

 

Blue Cypress Books, New Orleans, LA

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When I walked into Blue Cypress Books I was immediately hit with a New Orleans vibe.  New Orleans jazz playing in the background, the store space occupying a historical building, and a King Cake book just inside the entrance looking me right in the face.  This two-level indie has been in business for about 13 years but only in this space for about 6 months.  It has turned into a great move for the store and a very short one.  Blue Cypress moved right across the street from the old store into a new one and by doing so doubled their space.  Now in addition to adding more books, they have a spacious event area upstairs that can hold as many as 60 people.  I found it interesting that in addition to the usual books and author events you can also take self-defense classes.  Honestly, I think you can find just about any kind of an event at an independent bookstore.

What will you find here?  A good split of 80/20 used to new books and as I browsed through the store it was sometimes tricky to tell the difference, a really good sign.  Customers who bring their books in will receive store credit in exchange.  They also offer a frequent buyer punch card and I encourage regular customers to take advantage of this (I wish every indie could do this).  The store has some great sidelines including greeting cards, journals, and finger puppets to name a few.  But as store manager Leanna told me, the best sellers are locally crafted soaps, the popular bookstore candles, and jigsaw puzzles.  If you want to buy some books but can't make it to the store, consider making a purchase online.  The other thing you MIGHT find here is Kitty Meow, the bookstore cat.  She was pretty illusive during my visit so keep your eyes open for this cutie when you come to the store.

If you're looking for a good time to visit the store you might want to consider coming during Mardi Gras.  I've heard from more than one New Orleans bookstore that Mardi Gras is a slow time for business.  Consider escaping the cacophony and enjoy an oasis of calm at Blue Cypress Books where you can enjoy New Orleans in the comfort of a fine independent bookstore.  Go to an indie and buy a book.  Bonsoir.

JUST FINISHED:  Manfried Saves The Day, Caitlin Major & Kelly Bastow.  This is the 2nd Manfried book I've read, a graphic novel where the cats are the superior beings and their pets are little men.  All the cats talk about their little men, how cute they are, and the funny things they do.  Manfried is Steve Catson's little man and Manfried must win the Man Show in order to save the shelter.  A shelter for little lost men.  Hilarious!  Recommended. 

CURRENTLY READING:  Educated, Tara Westover. 

This is the after picture. 

This is the before picture, right across the street from the new location.  If I had visited here a year ago, this is where I would've been. 

Many bookstores provide outdoor bargain browsing before you enter the store. 

Uh oh. 

Large display window. 

View looking into the front entrance.  I was never in their previous space but the view coming in here is beautiful. 

Looking to the left from the front entrance. 

Looking to the right from the front entrance.

Every bookstore has its own special effects around the store. 

Pick up this book and learn about a New Orleans tradition. 

This is where I lived in my former life. 

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

Partial confirmation of Kitty Meow, the bookstore cat.  If you want a picture you'll have to be quick. 

A few of the greeting cards available. 

The right side of the store offers a wonderful browsing space. 

Lose your readers at the Mardi Gras parties?  Blue Cypress has you covered. 

Overview of the 2nd floor looking to the left from the top of the stairs. 

Looking to the right from the top of the stairway on the 2nd floor. 

The store has a perfect event space upstairs, one of the advantages of their new location. 

If nothing else, go upstairs to see this stunning mural.  Congrats to the artist. 

I love it when I see things like this.  Very unique. 

If you're on a journey writing about bookstores and need another journal, you'll find it here. 

When you get to the checkout counter your shopping isn't complete.  Make sure you check out the sidelines below the counter. 

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

Partial view of the children's area. 

The bookstore candles are very popular and make a great gift idea. 

With Elizabeth, the fine owner at Blue Cypress Books.  Thanks for a great visit.