Bridget's Bookshelf had its grand opening last weekend at 148 West Broadway in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Owner Mary Aney posted on social media after Friday's launch: "THANK YOU Book Lovers! Tonight was beyond amazing. And I am so grateful for each of you. I loved seeing so many friends, former students and their families as well as meeting new friends. I'm looking forward to tomorrow!... Thank you everyone for coming out in the rain and making this evening so wonderful!"
On Saturday, she posted: "I'm afraid I’m going to sound redundant if I try to describe today. Fantastic! Amazing! Wonderful! These words just can't begin to explain how I feel after opening Bridget's Bookshelf. Seeing and meeting so many old and new friends feels so good. Thank you everyone for coming! I look forward to seeing you again!!! Now I have to put in an order of great new books!"
In an interview with KMTV before the opening, Aney said, "I just felt like it was a real need, that Council Bluffs should have a bookstore. I have people stopping every day to thank me for opening a bookstore." People have also expressed excitement on social media. "I was floored, I'm still floored every day."
Bridget's Bookshelf is "filled with personal touches, including quilts made by Aney's sister and book reviews written by her granddaughter," KMTV reported. "The shop is named after a baby girl Aney lost and a painting on the wall is a tribute to her mother."
After 35 years as a public school teacher and librarian, Aney is ready for the next chapter. "I just want people to feel good and happy and comfortable and know that they can come," she said.