Located in Birmingham’s Crestwood neighborhood, this independent bookstore has become a small slice of heaven for the local community, thanks to owners Laura Cotton, Kristen Iskandrian, and Elizabeth Goodrich. The store itself is filled with the smell of paper; colored markers write fun messages on the windows; and a charming web of hanging lights only adds to the delightful atmosphere inside. I got the chance to speak to Goodrich about the inspiration behind this cozy bookstore and she was happy to share that, “the three of us took inspiration from other bookstores that we admire. We wanted the store to have a warm and inviting sense, but we also wanted it to be functional within the city.” Goodrich went on to explain how important it was for Thank You Books to be accessible for both wheelchairs and strollers, and it soon became apparent that this is a space which accommodates and celebrates both books and people, from every walk of life.
After a period of time in which events had to be virtual, the store has recently opened up for in person events again. Pleased to announce this, Goodrich said that “We love being in person again. We’re excited to host events in which we can continue to connect to our community through authors, poets and their books.” Thank You Books most recent Poetry Night was held on February 24 and featured the local poets and authors, Abraham Smith and Jessica Fordham Kidd. “Our Book Club and Poetry Nights are a great way to discuss and ask questions about the material and most writers really love to talk about their craft. I personally love hearing from our customers about how much they enjoy the connections they get from reading and so these events give them the opportunity to really engage.” In an exciting development, the bookstore's children’s reading area has also recently expanded into the space next door, so there is even more space to accommodate the owner’s shared mission to facilitate in the magical escape of reading, for people of all ages.
Looking around the store, it’s clear to see just how much love and attention to detail has been put into choosing each and every book these female owners have decided to showcase within their store. A process which seems only possible from a fellow bookworm, and Goodrich easily confirmed this as she went to share that, “Everybody here is a reader, and whilst all three of us love books, we also share a love for people.” Thank You Books does indeed have a wide and diverse author and readership which fits with their important message of inclusion. Goodrich confirmed this further in saying, “We love the community which springs up around books and so, as much as this is a small, independent bookstore in Alabama, we also love that our books connect us to wider and important international conversations, which are shared through stories from around the world.”
Be sure to check out more exciting and upcoming events such as the UNDER THE MOUNTAIN presents: Stephen Graham Jones at The O'Neal Library on March 5 from 7 to 9 p.m., where Thank You Books will be the official booksellers of this New York Times bestselling author! Or, when you have a free moment to spare, be sure to stop by the store to ask a friendly staff member for a favorite book recommendation, before taking some time to read, discuss, and soak in this local spot of literary wonder.
