"We and our customers are very proud that we've made it to 20," said Tommie Plank, owner of the Covered Treasures Bookstore in Monument, Colo. "And the community is proud that it can support an independent bookstore."
Covered Treasures opened in 1993 in Monument's historic downtown. Although the store won't turn 20 until July 17, Plank intends to turn the whole month of July into one "big party month." Each week, a different type of book, from picture books to hardcovers to trade paperbacks, will be 20% off, and Plank and her employees will use old articles and photos of the store to create commemorative posters. The festivities will culminate on July 18, when Colorado author Peter Heller (The Dog Stars, Vintage) will appear for a combination birthday party and author event.
In addition to being an anniversary party, the Heller event is part of Monument's Art Hop series--from May through September, 20 local businesses stay open late on the third Thursday of each month, celebrating with drinks, food, live music and readings as people "stroll around town." This month, Covered Treasures will host Beth Groundwater, author of the Rocky Mountain Outdoor Adventures mystery series, for Art Hop.
Before opening the store in 1993, Plank and her then-co-owner pored over census data and other records, investigating whether a small community could support an independent bookstore. Said Plank: "It was a gamble, but we did it and we have had great support." --Alex Mutter