Connecticut’s newest bookstore celebrated its grand opening this past weekend. They had the ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday. I stopped in on Saturday to have a browse and congratulate the owners, the mother and daughter duo of Karen Opper and Belle Opper.
When you walk through the front door, to the left is cash wrap, a display with journals, coloring books, and local interest. Tucked in the corner is a public restroom. As my Book Cougars cohost Emily has pointed out, you can’t give your full focus to the books when you have a full bladder. Straight ahead and not pictured is a table and standing display with book-related sidelines such as Out of Print merchandise.
To the right when you walk through the front is the bulk of the book sections. There are books for all ages, from picture books to middle readers to YA and adult. Fiction and non-fiction.
On the bottom right is a box for comments and suggestions. Bookstores appreciate and need community feedback.
The local author (seated) is Tony Renzoni. His new book is Connecticut Rock ‘N’ Roll: A History. Karen said they plan on hosting author events both in-store and off-site. They have two off-site author events lined up so far for the fall, Amy Bloom and Rosemary Wells.
If you’re in the area stop in and check out That Book Store LLC. Karen and Belle are friendly and welcoming. If they don’t have the books you’re interested in, let them know. Part of the crucial work for bookstores (always, but especially in the beginning) is knowing what their community wants. And if you’re shy about talking with people, there is that suggestion box.
That Book Store LLC is located at 446 Silas Deane Hwy in Wethersfield, CT.
Website: thatbookstore.com