Story Line Books, a new bookstore located inside the historic Union Depot railroad station in St. Paul, Minn., hosted its grand opening celebration late last month. MPR News reported that owner Danielle Miller "was looking for a new career, and she and her husband were toying with moving from their home in Lincoln, Neb., to Minnesota to be closer to family. On a visit to Minnesota, she saw a spot for lease."
"Wouldn't it be just so fun to open a bookstore?" she asked her husband, who replied, "Why don't you just do that?"
When Miller began researching, her background in entrepreneurial and small business law came in handy. The thriving indie bookstore scene in the Twin Cities was encouraging as well, but the location sealed the deal.
"My husband and I, we're train people," she said. "Every time we travel, we figure out a way to take the train, even if it doesn't make a whole lot of sense for us to be taking the train. I found the spot in Union Depot, and that felt like lightning striking."
Miller hopes the bookstore will become a cozy resting place for travelers looking for reading material. She has a selection of children's books, including many books from Minnesota presses, along with gifts, stationery, and travel essentials.
In an interview with the Star Tribune, Miller said, "I have a three-year lease. So, that would be sort of when I'll know. But the first two weekends here were already more than I thought they'd be. I was more crowded than I thought I would be. I did more business than I thought I would. So, I'm feeling incredibly hopeful."