New bookstore opens to support local libraries
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Proceeds from the Library Shop Mission Hills support local libraries. Photo: Kate Murphy/Axios
A new independent bookstore opened in the old Mission Hills library on Monday to support local libraries.
Why it matters: The shop, run by the San Diego Library Foundation, revitalizes the site that has sat vacant since 2018, and adds a new revenue stream for library branches threatened by local and federal budget cuts.
Zoom in: The Library Shop Mission Hills' shelves are stocked with books by local authors, titles on LGBTQ+ and immigration issues, curated staff recommendations and book-themed gifts, knickknacks and tote bags.
- A group of seniors, moms with toddlers in tow and other curious neighbors were perusing the shop as soon as it opened. "Oooooh, it smells like a bookstore," one shopper said.
- The store will also host author talks, book clubs and other community events throughout the year, including activities this week where people can earn discounts.
Between the lines: The city had been looking to redevelop the site for years, but halted plans to turn it into an affordable housing site after facing pushback from some residents.
- A neighborhood group applied to give the building a historic designation, which meant it couldn't be converted.
What they're saying: "This is where public investment and private investment goes into creating a neighborhood community asset that then ultimately goes to support the city," Library Foundation SD CEO Patrick Stewart told Axios.
- He noted the city did the heavy lifting to refurbish the space and is charging below-market rent.
Follow the money: The foundation is hoping to build on the success of its shop in the Central Library downtown, where sales have steadily increased from $153,000 in fiscal 2022 to $300,000 in fiscal 2024, the Union-Tribune reported.
Stop by: The shop at 925 W. Washington St. is a few blocks from the Mission Hills-Hillcrest/Knox Library.
- It's open every day — from 10am–7pm on weekdays, 11am–7pm on Saturdays and 11am–6pm on Sundays.
