Why Browseabout Books is a paradise for people who love books and beaches
Independent bookstores are the heartbeats of their communities. They provide culture and community, generate local jobs and sales tax revenue, promote literacy and education, champion and center diverse and new authors, connect readers to books in a personal and authentic way, and actively support the right to read and access to books in their communities.
Each week we profile an independent bookstore, sharing what makes each one special and getting their expert and unique book recommendations.
This week we have Susan Kehoe, owner of Browseabout Books in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.
What’s your store’s story?
Browseabout has been a Rehoboth Beach must-visit since 1975. We are a beach and booklovers paradise with 13,000 square feet of books for all ages, toys, stationery, housewares and a cafe.
What makes your independent bookstore unique?
Browseabout is known for our fun and friendly shopping experience, and we have something for tourists and locals alike. Our staff is knowledgeable and helpful. We make significant yearly donations to local charities, concentrating on putting books in children's hands and shelter pets, but also contributing to our local arts groups, our libraries, and members of our community who have food and shelter insecurities. We are also the official bookseller for the History Book Festival, the only history and historical fiction book festival in the country.
What's your favorite section in your store?
My favorite sections of the store are our ever-changing displays. Our buyers do an amazing job, and we always have something new, exciting and trendy to showcase.
What book do you love to recommend to customers and why?
"Always The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern. It's the perfect book for me with its gorgeous writing, magic, a circus that only opens at night, and complicated, doomed romance. She totally transports you to the Cirque de Reves!
Two years ago, I would've said "A Little Life" by Hanya Yanagihara, but then Booktok discovered it. Now, it would be "Anubis Gates" by Tim Powers. It's the perfect combination of time travel, history and ... killer clowns.
Why is shopping at local, independent bookstores important?
Shopping at local, independent bookstores is important because we are literally the heart of your towns and downtowns. We are passionate about what we do – we do not rely on algorithms to decide what and how much we buy. We care about our staff, our customers and our towns. We donate and participate because we love what we do and where we live.
What are some of your store's events, programs, or partnerships coming up that you would like to share?
Find all of our events on our website. Here’s what’s coming up:
March 19: Conversation with Laurie Gilmore "The Strawberry Patch Pancake House"
March 20: Conversation with L.M. Elliott "Truth, Lies, & the Questions in Between"
March 25: Conversation with William Geroux "The Fifteen"
March 28: Conversation Harlan Coben "Nobody’s Fool"
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Why Browseabout Books is a book-and-beach lovers paradise
