Neighborly Books, an all-ages bookstore with a focus on community, will open in downtown Maryville, Tenn., this summer. Store owner Laurie Meier told the Daily Times she has wanted to open a bookstore of her own for around 20 years and is eyeing a soft opening in June, followed by a grand-opening celebration in July.
In addition to books for children, teens and adults, Meier plans to carry book-related gift items, along with toys, puzzles and games for children. She hopes to host author readings, mini-workshops, poetry nights and musical evenings while tailoring her event offerings to the interests of the Maryville community. She added that she has no plans to serve food or drinks, as there are some great coffee shops in downtown Maryville.
 |
|
| Future home of Neighborly Books (image: Google) |
|
Meier explained that despite being a lifelong reader and wanting to open a bookstore for a long time, her husband was in the Air Force and they moved far too often for it to be feasible. After her husband retired and they settled in eastern Tennessee, she "absolutely fell in love" with Maryville. That love for the community, and the revitalization of the downtown area, spurred her to finally open a bookstore.
Meier said she received a lot of help and encouragement not only from other independent booksellers but also members of Maryville's business community. "I got brave enough to start telling people about my dream, and some of the local business owners and entrepreneurs around here were so excited and encouraging to me."
She'll officially take possession of her storefront at 106 E. Broadway on May 1 and hopes to have things up and running in June. If it takes longer than expected, she said she'd like to do some pop-ups in the building.