Ladybird Books will officially open tomorrow, October 30, at 299 King St. in Charleston, S.C. The Post and Courier reported that after a long career as book reviewer and bookstore consultant in New York City and the Charleston area, Summer Anderson "is trying her hand at owning and operating her own independent bookshop in the heart of Charleston's main shopping district."
Committed to creating a "third space" getaway for book enthusiasts, Anderson envisions a setting that serves as an informal meeting place "that will transport patrons from their predictable home and work routines into a mystical journey through layers of literary genres," the Post and Courier added.
In addition to curated book sections, the layout for Ladybird Books will feature a cooking area "reflective of the Holy City's rich culinary scene," according to Anderson, who described the store's interior as "inviting," furnished with ample bench space for people to relax and explore the books. Also on offer will be items like wrapping paper, greeting cards, art in vintage tramp frames from Cornwall, England, oyster shuckers, and paring knives.
She is most excited about her "How to be Human" section, offering spiritual, meditation, and self-reflection titles: "I'm also thrilled with our 'What the South Holds' section that will pull together all that the South represents and wrestles with: the good, the bad and everything in between. It will carry southern literature alongside regional nonfiction and cookbooks that carry culture."
Ladybird Books was inspired by Anderson's experiences at Three Lives & Co. in Manhattan's West Village: "I think what Ladybird Books offers is an experience with a very curated and specific point of view, from the tiles to the vinyl selection. My hope is that you might come in with a book in mind and leave with two or three other discoveries that ignite your imagination and curiosity."