When we moved to Holland, MI four years ago from Illinois, a bookstore wasn’t in any plans we had. However, as of November 1st, we find ourselves exactly there. We have asked ourselves and others have echoed the question: why a bookstore.
Once in Holland, we have been working to find our son Nathan a job where he would excel. It has been very difficult to find places that can or are willing to understand him enough to allow him to work. He requires assistance in communicating. We have had a couple start and stop opportunities but nothing that lasted.
It was actually Nathan who suggested we look into purchasing a small family business. At first this was a dauting task as we did not have any product to sell or inroads to a market. We quickly realized that we would need to buy an existing business, having both product and existing customer base. Then this past summer we found a social media post that the Holland Book Mart was for sale.
Acquiring the bookstore was all about carving out meaningful work for Nathan. The bookstore offered just a chance and was enough of a challenge for Nathan. He has expressed interest in understanding how to run a family business.
While we are committed to selling quality used books at a good price, our vision for the store is much bigger than that. Rebekah, the former owner, has done a phenomenal job organizing and keeping a significant inventory. While the space is well organized, we are constrained. Our end desire is to expand the vision and expand the place. Our customers have spoken loud and clear, a place to sit, coffee and area for children are the major requests we receive.
So why a bookstore – because the opportunity is endless!