Page Against the Machine, a new and used independent bookstore with an inventory of books that go "against the grain," has opened in Long Beach, Calif., the Grunion Gazette reported.
Owner Chris Giaco explained that while the store's name and mission might make it seem narrowly focused, the inventory will include everything from environmental children's books to critical texts about philosophy, art and gender studies. He added that generally speaking, he wants to sell books that promote mindfulness, instigate conversations and inspire creativity.
Giaco, who has sold books online for most of his life, was the owner of the now-closed vintage art and furniture store inretrospect, also located in Long Beach. The bookstore's first event, an exhibition opening for the photographer Jim Coke, is schedule for April 26. An official grand opening is tentatively scheduled for May.
"I would like this to function as a hub for information," Giaco told the Gazette. "This is a passion project for me. If I wasn't at the store, I'd be at home selling books online, and I'd rather be at the store meeting and talking to people."