Congratulations to Chaucer's Books, Santa Barbara, Calif., which is marking its 50th anniversary this Friday, November 1, 5-7 p.m., with "an evening of celebration and community as we honor five decades of stories, community, and literary adventures."
At 5:30, founder Mahri Kerley, who is also celebrating her 80th birthday, co-owners, and special guests will speak, and the two winners of the "Tell Us Your Story" contest will read their works, highlighting the magic of storytelling that has been a cornerstone of the bookstore's legacy. The Quire of Voyces will lead attendees in a rendition of "Happy Birthday" and other songs, inviting everyone to sing along and share in the celebration. There will also be cookies and cupcakes on hand, as well as face painting and coloring activities for all ages.
Per tradition, the store's annual anniversary sale will also take place at this time. Excluding gift cards, magazines, textbooks, and 50th-anniversary merch, everything in the store will be 20% off during the event.