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Dandelion Bookshop will open in December at 139 S. Oak Park Ave. in Oak Park, Ill. Wednesday Journal reported that owners Jamie and Kurt Ericson came up with the idea of launching their own bookstore after the closure earlier this year of Centuries & Sleuths in Forest Park and the impending closure of the Book Table in Oak Park (see below).
"Having a bookstore here was big draw when we decided where to move," said Jamie Ericson, who moved to the area more than four years ago. "Losing a bookstore means a big hole in the community."
They chose the name for the bookstore because dandelions "represent hope, resilience and playfulness, and they're tied to the ideas of wishes and growth," she noted, adding that they are also stubborn and good inspiration for a new venture.
A children's books author who has worked in publishing throughout her career, Ericson said her connections from past jobs and support from the community have made it possible to open the new store, which will feature a variety of books while placing an emphasis on kids' books.
"Our empathy comes from reading," she observed. "Just putting yourself into someone else's shoes and another world that you probably can't easily step into.... It just opens so much up, and I think we need that more than ever."
Shelves have been ordered for the new bookshop, but if the Ericsons are unable to open fully in December, they may do a pop-up store in the same space in the meantime.
Jamie Ercison said she hopes the Dandelion Bookshop will be a place for local writing groups or others to meet and connect, noting: "Bookstores are such a connecting point. This is the birthplace of Ernest Hemingway; we have to have one here. I really want it to be community focused.... We would really just like to make sure it's a place for everyone."