The economic downturn has affected some Denver businesses differently than others. Thrift stores are more crowded, and second hand concerns like Kilgore Books, known for its excellent selection, seem poised for an upturn. "I think especially for only being open half a year, we're doing very well right now," says co-owner Luke Janes. Kilgore Books is located in what was formerly Across The Trax, near the corner of 13th and Washington, in a part of Capitol Hill that's seen some business closures in recent years as part of a neighborhood renovation program. "They're just happy to have someone in here who kind of makes a nice draw to the area," says Luke. "A lot of people will come here to find interesting books, and it adds to the block." "I think economically we're in a really good spot," says Luke's partner, Dan Stafford. "We're not making a ton of money, but we don't have a 5 year lease. The arrangement with Wax Trax is very old school, punk rock, D.I.Y. We definitely felt a hit in November, and we're feeling it a little bit now, but I think the average person, if they're feeling any crunch from the economy, they're more likely to come in and buy a beat up old paperback for four bucks instead of spending ten dollars for a movie or something else. I don't think that's pie in the sky theory on my part."
Kilgore Books, 624 E. 13th Ave. (303) 815-1979
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