Between the Lines, an all-ages bookstore selling new and used books, is opening in Goldsboro, N.C., this weekend, the News Argus reported.
Located at 144 N. Center St., Between the Lines will carry a wide selection of books at various price points, along with nonbook items like apparel, stationery, and bookmarks.
Owner Rhonda Coakley, who worked as a teacher for more than 30 years, described the store's interior as a cozy space full of "nooks and crannies." It includes space for community members to write, read, and play games, and the store features a special "Secret Garden" room located behind a moving bookshelf, as well as a "Dragon's Lair" located in the children's section.
Coakley's event plans include author talks, poetry readings, yoga classes, and "bucket list workshops." She explained that these will focus on "the things you've wanted to learn but never found the level you wanted to do, like canning."
Coakley told the News Argus that she's a lifelong reader and always liked the idea of owning a bookstore. After retiring from her career in education in 2019, she started discussing possibilities for a next step with her mother, Mickie Braswell.
"My mom has always wanted to have a bookstore," Coakley said. "She's in her 80s and she said, 'Well, let's do it. I'll help you.' She comes and helps me. She's my right hand."
Coakley has a grand-opening celebration planned for this coming Saturday that will include a storytime session as well as face painting and a scavenger hunt. The afternoon and evening will also feature a mocktail tasting and a social.