Reasonable Books, a general independent bookstore with an 80/20 ratio of new to used books, opened last month in Lafayette, Calif., the Lamorinda Weekly reported.
Owned by Betty and Rudy Winnacker, the store has, it says, "an emphasis on thoughtful and important subjects for the interested and discerning reader. While we strive to make available illuminating materials you may not even realize you want to read, we also believe that the mind benefits from rest and healthy distractions. You will find books that can help you relax or escape for a well-deserved break here."
According to the Lamorinda Weekly, a bookstore has been a dream of the Winnackers because of their love of reading. Moreover, "Rudy Winnacker says the store is an opportunity he's looked forward to for sometime to work with the printed word after a career working with a number of digital publishing companies such as Blogger, Twitter and Medium."
Because of Covid-19, the store opened quietly. The Weekly described it as "a sanctuary of peace and quiet--a deliberate goal of the Winnackers." They plan to become "very involved with the community, the Chamber of Commerce, schools and book clubs. They aim to have in-person events at the store such as books signings and author talks."
So far, the owners are pleased with the first month. Rudy Winnacker said, "There is a steady stream of visitors and a lot of support and good will from the community. We are making sales, growing our inventory and learning a lot about how we can serve the readers in Lafayette and surrounding towns."