Beaverdale Books is expanding
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Hunter Gillum, co-owner of Beaverdale Books. Photo: Linh Ta/Axios
Beaverdale Books is turning 20 this year, and it's celebrating in a big way by expanding the shop.
Why it matters: While fewer people say they read for fun, those who are reading are turning more toward local shops for live events and camaraderie over their latest fandoms.
State of play: The neighborhood bookstore is absorbing an adjacent space at 2629 Beaver Ave., adding around 500 square feet of retail and event space.
How it started: Co-owner Hunter Gillum has wanted to grow for several years, but a firm commitment to staying in Beaverdale meant his options were limited to one direction: next door.
- Beaverdale Books has owned that space for two years, using it for storage and the occasional subletter. When its most recent tenant moved out in January, Gillum says the store was ready.
- "It's perfectly timed," Gillum tells Axios. "A new layout, a new space. It's just kind of fun."
Zoom in: The wall between the two spaces will be opened up across 20 feet, creating what Gillum hopes will feel like "a big, open space."
- The expanded store, which frequently hosts book clubs and local authors, will also have seating for 60 people — nearly double the current capacity.
The big picture: Events have become a major part of the store. Over the last few years, it's hosted the DSM Book Festival and a popular Banned Books Festival.
- "Nightbitch" author Rachel Yoder is speaking there Thursday.
What they're saying: During the pandemic, there was an emphasis on shopping local instead of with conglomerates like Amazon.
- That habit has remained for some people, as well as a rediscovery of reading through "BookTok" and curiosity over banned books, he says.
What's next: Gillum plans to hold an opening for the new space this spring.