As far as new independent bookstores go, WORD might be the most dynamic and community conscious of them all. Located at 126 Franklin Street in Greenpoint, this little wonderland of books, stationary, kids’ stuff and various gift options takes interactive retail to a new level.
Traditionally a polish neighborhood, Greenpoint, like all Brooklyn neighborhoods, has seen change beyond its imagination. As manager Stephanie Anderson put it, “10 years ago it was unthinkable for Greenpoint to have an English language bookstore.” Like Queens’ Astoria, these neighborhoods are so seeped in the past, they’re not reluctant but rather unaware of the benefits of such business.
A business in WORD which takes advantage of the large kid population in the neighborhood, devoting the back half of their store to children’s interests, and creating events like movie screenings, arts and crafts and storytime in their basement. The adults have their fair share of fun too with book club meetings twice a week, readings a la vino, Bananagrams in the Basement and even for those unattached few, a matchmaking board aptly named “Between the Covers.”
State what you’re looking for, sex, favorite books and authors, dislikes and contact info. and your ode shall be tacked-up with the other calls to cupid. “It really works.” Ms. Anderson said, adding that they host mixers at neighborhood bar, The Diamond. In addition they run a WORD running group, have recently added a WORD basketball league, and throw a potluck in there every once in a while.
All combining to form a bookstore willing to embrace the revision of culture that has occurred in the book industry over the last few years and will continue from here on in. On WORD’s website (www.wordbrooklyn.com) one can become a Facebook fan, follow them on Twitter, keep up with the Word blog, order books and plan for upcoming events.
Events Coordinator, Kelly Amabile has found that using new types of media, in balance with traditional marketing, has paid dividends. “We provide a lot more than just a place where you can buy great books,” she said.
Yet, books they have. Displayed on colorful tables were the likes of The Annotated Nose (an annotated edition of William Hundwasser’s The Nose) by Marc Estrin; Sex, Drugs and Gefilte Fish by Shana Liebman, and Salmonella Men On Planet Porno. You’ll find an efficient selection of classic and comtemporary fiction, most non-fiction and art desires, along with a Food Lit. section and an age-divided wall of kids stuff: Early Readers 5-7; Middle Readers 8-12; Young Adult 13+.
Although many of WORD’s customers could classify themselves as “young adults;” there is no doubt that the variety offered and connections made will have you feeling like a kid again: immersed in a common purpose coupled with the joy of escape.
Comments