The Read Queen - Lafayette, CO

The Read Queen, Lafayette, CO

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When I first discovered this bookstore and began reading about it I had to figure out how to pronounce it.  It wasn't totally clear to me at first whether to pronounce it "red" or "reed."  But since they offer used books (along with new) it made sense that it is the The Read Queen, pronounced "red."  The Read Queen is a beautiful building inside and out in a mostly residential area.  This indie is almost three years old meaning its beginning coincided with the onset of the pandemic.  As bookseller Emma told me, her understanding was that things were a little slow when they opened then things gradually took off and they now see MANY regulars frequenting the store.  Great news for The Read Queen and the Lafayette community.

This historic building of over 100 years offers new and used books, all shelved together.  Look for the gold stars on the spines to identify the used books.  Customers who bring in their books can receive store credit in return.  The cafe is a huge and important part of the business offering a variety of coffee drinks and baked items.  After you make purchase you'll have all sorts of options for seating including inside the bookstore, the front patio, the long patio on the side of the store, or The Queen's Lounge, a separate building and space behind the store which is essentially a large living room with plentiful seating and a very calming atmosphere.  Regular visitors to the cafe can use a punch card that when filled out will earn them a free drink and the title of Loyal Knave.  You'll find many sidelines scattered throughout the store including stickers (selling great), greeting cards, locally sourced candles, one of a kind hand made handbags created locally, reading glasses, jewelry, games, and so much more. 

I didn't get to meet co-owners Barbra H. or Deirdre A. on this day but boy did they leave the store in good hands.  Emma was very busy this day but was so kind to take time to visit with me and tell me a bit about the store.  If you meet her during your visit she'll be able to take care of your cafe order AND look up books for you.  A talent welcomed at ANY bookstore.

If you live in Lafayette or are traveling through on vacation, be sure to pay a visit to this super bookstore with a little bit of everything.  Go to an indie and buy a book.  Bonsoir.

CURRENTLY READING:  The Reckoning, John Grisham. 

 

Works for me. 

The Read Queen is a big building.  This is the back of the store. 

A great covered patio area along one side of the store. 

View looking into the store from the front entrance. 

Looking to the right from the front entrance.  I love this seating area. 

Looking to the left from the front entrance.  Some readers may recognize The Indie Bob Spot director of logistics Michelle T. 

A super place to sit, sip, and read. 

Table display of various sidelines. 

The greeting cards offered are numerous. 

Handcrafted candles produced locally. 

An assortment of puzzles. 

Unique hand made purses and totes, created locally. 

View of the cafe counter. 

I love the blind date with a book promotions found at many bookstores. 

Just a portion of the jewelry available. 

Some nice bookstore swag. 

Looking for games?  They've got you covered. 

If you're on a budget look for the bargain book shelves. 

View across the back of the store.

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

Head to this room in the back of the store for non-fiction and children's books. 

Another view of what you'll see in the back room. 

Or ask a tall person to get that book from the top shelf. 

Nancy Drew fans should pay a visit. 

Your guide to finding the used books. 

I found the Red Queen at The Read Queen!

I'm always happy to see these in bookstores since I break mine often. 

A frequent buyer cafe card.  You could become a Loyal Knave!  If you're a regular you must have this.  I love it. 

I see many reasons to visit the cafe. 

Another part of the store is The Queen's Lounge located in another building behind the store.  A great place for groups and quiet. 

View looking into The Queen's Lounge.  I could get comfy here. 

 

With Emma, one of the fine booksellers at The Read Queen.  Thanks for a great visit.