DESTINATION: INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORES
- May 2
- 2 min read
Independent bookstores just make things better. Regardless of how our week went or day is going, when we enter an independent book store, we journey to a different world like no other. None have the same focus, merchandise, or options, but all just brighten our days.
With every visit, It’s fun to watch these little places of personality grow, evolve, and become destinations to seek out when at home or traveling. When we travel, we make it a point to visit as many as we can, and we’re always delighted by the differences, styles, and offerings each one has. The towns and cities we return to often have independent book stores. Even if there are a lot of them, each has a different twist.
Here in the Tampa area, there is a definite surge in bookstores that are worth the visit. They can be discovered in pockets of shopping centers, downtown areas, or off the beaten path, and new ones open all the time.
Here in the Land O’ Lakes/Lutz area, one such independent opened about six months ago. Small Town Stories is a charming little place where one can enjoy living room seating, a variety of events (poetry readings, author signings, etc.), and discovering new authors. There's a children's section, a variety of genre, and local artists' creations. You won’t find the mass-produced books of the week or best sellers, but you’ll find something better: books written by real people with real stories.
Small Town Stories is dedicated to the independent, self-published, and small press authors. Through these voices, not shouted in the big box chains, but gently speaking to all about their journeys, stories, and longings, one gets to know the voices of their neighbors.
This is a place you won’t find anywhere else, nor will you find the same collection of books anywhere else in the world. As their website states:
"At Small Town Stories, we believe in the power of unique voices and untold tales. We're proud to be your go-to independent bookstore, championing self-published and small press authors both near and far!
"Explore a diverse collection that showcases the literary gems from our own community and beyond. From the heart of our small town to the corners of the world, there's a story waiting for you!"
So, gentle reader, get out there and find those independents, seek them out, spend time there, and discover new authors and worlds. You’ll be glad you did.
If you're one of my readers, I am launching my next book The Answer...with a catch there this Saturday, May 9th between 2:00 and 5:00. It's my first middle grades/young adolescent novel. My other books will be there, as well as some snacks. Come for a visit and discover one of your new favorite little peace places.
For more information about the beauty of Independent Book Stores and Small Town Stories, click here.
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