Congratulations to Brookline Booksmith, which turns 50 next week. The store is celebrating with a day-by-day 20% off sale for five days, starting Tuesday, November 1, in a different category each day: hardcovers; used books and remainders; children's books; gifts and learning products; and finally, going back to the store's roots, paperback books. The store will have a celebratory party after the holiday season.
Originally known as Paperback Booksmith (which for a time became a string of stores in the Northeast), the store was founded by Marshall Smith and at the time was one of only three paperback-only bookstores in the country. Eventually the store changed its name and began selling hardcovers, remainders and used books. In recent years, the store added gifts, greeting cards, a "brain fitness center" and a "fine arts center." Now owned also by manager Dana Brigham and treasurer Evelyn Vigo, Brookline Booksmith has a strong events program.
The three owners wrote: "Collectively we have over 100 years of residence, community involvement, activism, and devotion to the Town of Brookline. We are deeply proud to have fostered not just a bookstore but a cultural center that so clearly reflects the essence of Brookline and surrounding areas: Their thirst for knowledge and education; their sense of humor and fun; and their commitment to the importance of community for all residents. So often people tell us how much they love the store, that the 'store has a certain buzz to it.' (Not to mention the creaky wood floors.) All of this is reflected in our extraordinary staff, many of whom have been with us for decades…
"In spite of the dire predictions on the fate of bookstores, libraries, and books on paper, Brookline Booksmith is thriving. This is in no small part because of the loyalty of our beloved customers. However, loyalty can only persist as long as we provide an exciting place for knowledge and learning in an atmosphere of community and conviviality. And as long as we keep current with the digital world of e-books and online retailing--we provide both, and soon to be added print on demand."
