As a librarian, it’s probably no surprise that I spend much of my free time surrounded by books—whether at libraries, bookstores, or at home curled up with a good read. There’s something irresistible about being in spaces where books and the people who love them come together. Over the holiday break, I had the joy of frequenting my local library, exploring a few independent bookstores, and indulging in some uninterrupted reading time.
This break gave me the opportunity to dive into some fascinating nonfiction from our Lower School Library collection, exploring topics like the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge, the structure of different animal families, and architecture from around the world. I also revisited a classic, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea by Jules Verne, as part of our Lower School Genre Bingo Reading Challenge.
One book that truly captivated me was a thoughtful gift from my mom: The Bookshop: The History of the American Bookstore by Evan Friss. It turns out, if I’m not in a library or bookstore, I’m likely reading about them! Friss’s exploration of bookstores and their evolution resonated deeply, offering insights that felt surprisingly familiar as a librarian.
Evan Friss’s The Bookshop: A History of the American Bookstore offers a comprehensive look into the evolution of bookstores in the United States, starting in Pennsylvania with Benjamin Franklin, a self-described printer, and ending at writer Ann Patchett’s Parnassus in Nashville. In each of the bookshops described, Friss notes how the books might be what initially bring the people in, but the community and connections are what keep them coming back. I couldn’t help reflect on these findings and the library community at Colorado Academy.
A love of information and story
At the heart of both bookstores and libraries is the shared passion for information and storytelling. Friss’s book highlights how bookstores have long been sanctuaries for readers seeking knowledge, inspiration, and escape—a sentiment that deeply resonates within our school community. At Colorado Academy, our libraries are vibrant spaces where students across grades can immerse themselves in stories that expand their horizons or find resources that fuel their curiosity. Whether it’s an Upper School student discovering historical biographies, or a First Grader delighting in a new picture book, the love of story unites us all.
Activism and the power of ideas
Friss also underscores how bookstores have historically been centers for activism, serving as gathering places where individuals exchanged ideas that sparked change. Libraries share this legacy. At Colorado Academy, we strive to be more than repositories of books; we are hubs for critical thinking and civic engagement. Whether through discussions of banned books, projects on social justice, or student-led initiatives inspired by literature, our libraries empower students to harness the power of ideas and act on them.
A sense of discovery and enjoying the unexpected
One of the most delightful elements of both bookstores and libraries is the opportunity to browse and stumble upon the unexpected. Friss’s reflections on the joys of serendipitous discovery resonate strongly with our approach at Colorado Academy. In our libraries, we encourage students to wander, to let their eyes be drawn to an intriguing cover, or to pick up a book they wouldn’t ordinarily choose. These moments often lead to the most profound reading experiences, sparking curiosity and fostering a lifelong love of learning.
Connecting with others
Finally, Friss’s book illustrates the power of bookstores to connect people—not just to books but to one another. Similarly, our libraries at Colorado Academy are designed to be places of connection. From book clubs and author visits to collaborative projects and informal conversations about a favorite series, our libraries are where relationships are built through shared stories and ideas. These connections—between readers, ideas, and the larger community—are the cornerstone of what makes our library spaces so special.
By weaving together the love of information and story, the spirit of activism, the joy of discovery, and the connections forged through books, our libraries at Colorado Academy reflect many of the qualities that Friss celebrates in The Bookshop. In both bookstores and libraries, the magic lies not just in the books themselves but in how they bring people together in pursuit of knowledge, understanding, and community.
This sense of community will be on full display at our school’s upcoming Used Book Sale. It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to share their favorite stories, discover new ones, and connect through the shared love of reading.