May 6, 2024 - Business

New independent book store opening in Grimes

Linh Ta

Jena Best in front of a wall — Photo: Courtesy of Jena Best

A new independent book store is opening in Grimes this summer, and its owner says it'll be the only one in the area.

Driving the news: Jena Best, the owner of pop-up shop "Raccoon River Press" is moving her business into a brick-and-mortar store in July called "Wandering Raccoon Books."

How it started: For a decade, Best worked at Kemin as a chemist, but after the birth of her son in 2020, she decided to take a step back and find something with more flexibility.

Best started her pop-up shop in April 2021 and sold books online and at events like the Valley Junction Farmers Market.

State of play: The business's new name is a nod to how much her shop "wandered" in its early days, Best says.

What's next: Opening is slated for July at 250 West 1st Street, but shoppers can follow her shop's Facebook page for updates.

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New independent book store opening in Grimes

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