Having a Bibliophile in the family means we darken the doorways of bookstores and libraries with great frequency. One of our absolute favorites is The Bookmatters in Milford, Ohio. My kids request repeat visits multiple times a week–not kidding, and I’m here for it. Their converted gumball machine with staff recommendations in little capsules are a highlight of each trip.
Here to tell us more about this charming bookstore-with-a-fan-base is the whole team of The Bookmatters. I was delighted that this feature was a passion project of responses.
Chapter 1: Tell us the genesis story of The Bookmatters.
It’s like the proverbial saying, “when one door closes another opens”. We lost the lease on The Blue Manatee, a bookstore we ran for three years. It was devastating at the time. The owner wasn’t sure whether to reopen The Blue Manatee or a different bookstore or any bookstore at all. Then one day, someone referred her to a spot for lease in charming downtown Milford, OH. It was perfect for a new bookstore! We decided to build something completely unique that would be a welcoming space for everyone. The bookstore is a reflection of all of us and the community. We couldn’t be happier and can’t wait to celebrate The Bookmatters two-year anniversary in October.
In what ways do indie bookstores outshine their big box cousins?
Indie Bookstores have served as community hubs for as long as we have existed. We are more than just a place to buy books, we are a tight knit staff who will remember you and your preferences and even your birthday.
You have so many unique events and pop-ups. Which ones have been your favorite or most attended thus far?
It is so hard to choose, but The Bookfair for Adults we host at Hi-Wire Brewing will always have a special place in our hearts because it had never been done before in Cincy. We were all a little nervous because we weren’t sure how many people would be interested, but it was by far our most attended event thus far. It was exhilarating to engage with familiar faces while meeting so many new people in a different space. The feeling of seeing so many people come together for books is indescribable. The energy was electric and we cannot wait to do it again! Our website has an events calendar so you can stay up-to-date on all of our upcoming events and find out the next date for The Bookfair.
Why old Milford?
We didn’t necessarily set out to be in Milford but now can’t imagine being anywhere else. The downtown area is full of character and history. The Bookmatters building was built in 1860 and still has the original floors. There are antique shops, gift shops, amazing places to eat and the nicest people you could ever meet. The businesses support each other and there’s always a fun event coming up on the Community Events calendar. Art Affaire and Hometown Holidays being some of the more popular ones.
I’ve been (figuratively) dying to attend your None of This is True Ghost Tour. Can you share a teaser or two about the experience?
It is a unique experience that combines local history with utterly hysterical and spooky anecdotes. It is one of our favorite ways to interact with our community. It is a great reminder to not take yourself so seriously. So if you’re curious to learn more about the Kugler son with dreams of being a professional Harmonica player or what the buildings on Main Street were originally built for, you’ll have to snag a ticket.
What’s on the horizon for The Bookmatters?
We are ALWAYS up to something. Creating unique events and finding fun ways to engage with the community is our favorite pastime. In October we’ll bring back our None of this is True haunted tour of Milford. We’ve got some crazy things planned for our 2 year anniversary party as well. Our online Used Book Hub on our website is growing along with our Member Perks program. Our plan is to be around for a very long time.
How can bookish enthusiasts of all ages learn more about your shop?
Our website has all the information you would ever need about the store and our social media is a great place to see how the store really comes to life.
Love these local business spotlights? See more from Your Neighborhood Guide, Lauren Ashley Scallon.
