Sidekick Coffee & Books, "a community coffee shop and bookstore that seeks to be a hub for residents in our walkable community, as well as a destination in the corridor and beyond for those looking for exceptional coffee, food, books, and conversation," will open in mid-September at 1310 Melrose Ave. in Iowa City, Iowa. The bookshop is focusing on children's and YA titles while also offering a selection of bestsellers for adults.
"It is very inviting and has lots of features that are kid friendly," owner Katy Herbold, the mother of three children, told the Daily Iowan. "I think I offer something unique to families, especially downtown on Melrose. We have parking right out our back door for families, and I think the place just offers a different element."
"Filled with hexagon reading books built into the walls, a stage for open-mic night, and green velvet couches for older children, the vibe is very kid- and family-friendly, a trait which Herbold said she is most excited for," the Daily Iowan wrote. The store will also feature Heyn's local ice cream, along with pastries from TipTop Cakes and coffee from Intelligentsia.
"I think that will be a new combination of food and drinks for the area," she said.
Noting that this has been a dream of hers for a long time, she felt location was the most important aspect in making that dream work: "It's very convenient for me to get to work as a parent of young children and constantly running them around. The space right next door will be my husband's law firm as well, so we are very excited to have that closeness for our family.”
Nialle Sylvan, owner of the Haunted Bookshop, welcomed the idea of another bookseller in the area. "I'm thrilled," she said. "Having another place where people can gather, especially if it's targeted at younger people, I think it is fantastic." Regarding the potential for competition between the two businesses, Sylvan observed: "That's not how we do things here. I'll share their information with my patrons, and hopefully they'll check it out. Iowa City needs more bookstores, and I'm excited to see what happens."