The Book Shelf, an independent bookseller and a staple of Tryon since 1952, is relocating to 94 N. Trade Street in downtown Tryon. The shop will be located in the building that formerly housed Goodyear Florist.
Penny Padgett, who purchased the shop exactly a year ago, anticipates opening as early as this weekend.
“We wanted to be more of a presence in downtown Tryon,” Padgett said. “Also, we need to increase foot traffic into the store and to have a space that is more flexible for events.”
Padgett plans to host book signings and receptions and said she has also considered hosting writing workshops and story times for children.
Book Shelf manager Alivia Rochester said she looks forward to a brighter space and one that will allow for more walk-in traffic.
“The space is really beautiful and feels more open,” Rochester said. “I think it will be a lot easier to arrange the books in a way that people can look through easily.”
Padgett said the move is bittersweet since the bookstore has been in its current location for about 40 years. But she said the new store affords more square footage and a closer connection to the main thoroughfare.
Padgett said there are a few things loyal customers can expect to continue to enjoy.
“The friendliness and helpfulness of the staff, which has always been a hallmark of the store, will not change,” she said. “We hope to keep serving our customers for a long time. We truly believe the words of Rufus Choate when he wrote, ‘Happy is he who has laid up in his youth, and held fast in all fortune, a genuine and passionate love for reading.’”
The Book Shelf provides selections from national and regional bestsellers, a children’s section, cards and gifts. The shop offers a collection of local authors, including Lilian Jackson Braun, Mara and Ford Smith, Willard Pace and Mark Schweizer.
Hours for The Book Shelf are expected to remain the same at the new location: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday – Friday and 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Saturdays.
For more information, call 828-859-9304 or email tryonbookshelf@gmail.com.