Beach House Books and More, which sells new and used books, hosted its grand opening on April 27, Independent Bookstore Day, at 3210 Physicians Way in Sebring, Fla.
In a recent Facebook post, the bookseller noted: "Thank you to all that came out for our Grand Opening on Saturday, April 27th to help celebrate National Independent Bookstore Day with us! Stop in this week, purchase your raffle tickets for Saturday's drawing at Noon for a chance to win a great gift basket or gift card and shop for your next great read. See you soon!"
After owner Georgeann McNatt Gosch retired as a library manager, she decided to act on her lifelong dream of opening a bookstore. The Highland News-Sun reported that the result is "a unique layout being refashioned from a former medical practice with a lobby that's been converted into a lounge and study area. The reception office is now an elaborate collection of classics, signed copies, rare books and collectibles." The store also features DVDs, CDs, vinyl records, and gift items.
"So my husband and I together... have our own home library and we've always wanted to own our own bookstore," Gosch said. "So we started looking for property and found a couple of workable pieces of property. But this seemed to be the ideal location because it's situated on a corner."
She described the space as being perfect for a bookstore due to its location in the center of the county and in a position close to various schools for students to come by to do homework or receive tutoring. The property was purchased in December and prepared within the next month.
Gosch's plans for Beach House include a book club along with other events to attract newcomers to the venue. Local authors will be invited in the future to give them more exposure.