Independent bookstores are the heartbeats of their communities. They provide culture and community, generate local jobs and sales tax revenue, promote literacy and education, champion and center diverse and new authors, connect readers to books in a personal and authentic way and actively support the right to read and access to books in their communities.
Each week we profile an independent bookstore, sharing what makes each one special and getting their expert and unique book recommendations.
This week we have Nannette Crane-Post, owner of Black Ribbon Books in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
What’s your store’s story?
Black Ribbon Books is a woman-owned bookstore. I’m a full-time community college faculty member who splits her time between teaching, grading and maintaining a community space for books and reading. The shop is located in a historic hotel in Hot Springs National Park.
What makes your independent bookstore unique?
My customers are a mix of tourists and locals and all describe the store as welcoming and cozy. I am located next to a record store in the shopping gallery of the Arlington Hotel with a distinct art deco and 1920s vibe. I host author events, a book club and a safe place for local high school students to hang out. I sell both new and used books at all price points because I believe books should be affordable for everyone. I also carry gift items from local artists.
What’s your favorite section in your store?
My favorite section is the lounge area that has a couch, cozy chair and a coffee table with an ongoing jigsaw puzzle.
What book do you love to recommend to customers and why?
I love recommending Louise Erdrich’s book, “The Sentence.” Tookie, the main character, is deeply flawed yet looking for love, inclusion and a tribe. I think many of us can relate to her.
“Pilgrim at Tinker Creek” by Annie Dillard deserves more attention because it is a deep, slow study of our environment as a way to heal us and understand our lives. It asks us to slow down and focus our attention on things that may be overlooked (like the tiny inhabitants of a creek) because we deem them unimportant in our hurry to always be on the go.
Why is shopping at local, independent bookstores important?
Shopping at local indie bookstores is important because bookstores define the coupling of community and the world at large. Where else can one go to feel included and authentic, yet also connected with the world? I love how social barriers are removed in bookstores because our sense of self is sustained by having access to what speaks to us and what we identify with. At the same time, we are expanded by exposure to new subjects we otherwise would never discover.
What are some of your store’s events, programs, or partnerships you would like to share?
Every month we host a monthly book club. Past events include author readings and signings, student art receptions, birthday parties, photo shoots and even a wedding proposal.
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