Knox’s closest off-campus bookstore expects its space to be packed for its largest annual event. Wordsmith Bookshoppe will participate in Independent Bookstore Day celebrations on Saturday, April 25.
Manager John Henderson said that every purchase made during the event is eligible for a discount ranging from 5% to 20% off, determined by spinning a discount wheel. The day also features some giveaways and prizes.
“It’s just a fun day for us to celebrate and get people excited about books, and excited about the store,” Henderson said.
According to Henderson, Manga, classics, poetry, fantasy, “romantasy,” and LGBTQ+ genres are some of their most popular among college-aged readers.
He explained some of the reasoning behind the event, noting the more personal and friendly relationship between employees and regular customers. The money exchanged stays in local circulation.
The shop opened in 2019, and the owner Teri Parks has since then been hired for a new position elsewhere, although she is still involved in the bookshop.
“September First, I’m taking a new position with Warren County YMCA special needs athletic program. I am someone who wants to have their cake and eat it too. I want to keep my bookstore, so I’m stepping back to be a silent partner,” Parks said.
Parks highlighted the store’s positive relationship with Knox College, serving as a go-to for students and professors to find class materials (sometimes discounted) and collaborating with our Caxton Club to bring professional writers to town. They make a couple of annual appearances on campus, including this month’s Admitted Student Day booth fairs. Wordsmith has also done recent book fairs with other schools in the area.
