Today we’d like to introduce you to Beth Merrick.
Hi Beth, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
We opened in April 2021. The idea for a bookstore came about because we identified a need within our community. We were coming out of the pandemic, and looking at options. Our family always enjoyed visiting independent bookstores when traveling, and we all love to read. We saw it as having great potential, and an opportunity to serve!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There are always challenges, but there is so much good to it, too. Of course, there are finances in operating any business, so the constant pressure to “pay the bills”. It’s also a challenge to predict what people will be interested in reading, so inventory fluctuates. We also want to get the word out that we’re even here! We still have people pop in commenting that they’re glad they found us!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I have worked in corporate America for over 30 years, in hospitality, guest service and Human Resources. I think that foundation lent us well to approach our business with a service mentality. Everything we do is with our guests in mind. One thing I’m proud of is the diversity of what we offer. I think anyone can stroll in and find a book of interest, something they can relate to. People have numerous sources for books, so one thing I enjoy most is the events we host. This can be local authors, book releases, school initiatives, book clubs, and so many partnerships with our local community .
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Probably the most important is to buy a book-ha! That’s truly the core of what we do. We absolutely love serving our community though, so we’ve hosted school field trips, boozy book fairs, book swaps, guest speakers, and so much more. We’re always open to a collab! If purchasing isn’t your thing, a review is always appreciated. And anything to do with referrals, social media likes/shares, and things like that can go a long way. We’re grateful for it all!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sunshinebookco.com
- Instagram: Sunshine Book Co
- Facebook: Sunshine Book Co
