Independent bookstores are the heartbeats of their communities. They provide culture and community, generate local jobs and sales tax revenue, promote literacy and education, champion and center diverse and new authors, connect readers to books in a personal and authentic way, and actively support the right to read and access to books in their communities.<\/p>\n
Each week, we profile an independent bookstore<\/a>, sharing what makes each one special and getting their expert and unique book recommendations.<\/p>\n This week, we have founder Laura Guzman and partner Sarah Wheat of Book Society<\/a> in Berkeley, California.<\/p>\n What’s your store’s story?<\/strong><\/p>\n Founded in 2023 as an independent, woman-owned business dedicated to nurturing the community through books and shared experiences, Book Society operates a retail space and wine lounge in the Historic Elmwood District of Berkeley, California. In addition to book and gift sales, the store hosts special book-themed events, community gathering, offers a membership program and book and wine subscriptions.<\/p>\n \u200b\u200bIn the wake of the pandemic and amid an increasingly digital, divided world, people are craving offline spaces where they can slow down, be present, and engage in meaningful dialogue. Book Society is our answer to that call \u2013 a thoughtfully designed space where people can browse beautiful books, share a glass of wine and rediscover the art of conversation. It’s part bookstore, part wine bar and entirely rooted in the belief that community isn\u2019t a luxury \u2013 it\u2019s a necessity. Book Society is redefining what modern third spaces can be: soulful, smart and deeply human.<\/p>\n We’re known for creating a welcoming, curiosity-driven atmosphere, brought to life through curated book and wine pairings \u2013 like “What I Ate in One Year” by Stanley Tucci paired with a Dolcetto D\u2019Alba from Italy\u2019s Piedmont region. The themed monthly menus celebrate everything from poetry and nostalgia to food and place, and guests can enjoy tastings through our unique self-serve \u201csip station\u201d experience.<\/p>\n What’s your favorite section in your store?<\/strong><\/p>\n Book Society has an intentionally unconventional naming system for bookshelves to inspire curiosity while browsing. Readers will stumble upon categories like \u201cPassion & Peril,\u201d \u201cWildlife & Wanderlust\u201d or \u201cMysteries & Mayhem\u201d among others. Our favorite section is \u201cGrowth & Greatness\u201d (a blend of self-help, parenting, health and business) which encourages and inspires readers to be better humans.<\/p>\n What book do you love to recommend to customers and why?<\/strong><\/p>\n We love to recommend “This is Happiness” by Niall Williams because it’s a novel that invites you to slow down and savor every sentence just like a good glass of wine. Guzman fell in love with the way Williams captures the beauty of everyday life, weaving humor, heartache and joy into a story that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant. Set in a small Irish village on the brink of change, the book is a meditation on memory, first love and the quiet magic of ordinary moments. It\u2019s the kind of story that wraps around you like a cozy blanket and reminds you of the simple, profound pleasures in life: music, family, storytelling and community.<\/p>\n What book do you think deserves more attention and why?<\/strong><\/p>\n “Likeable Badass” by Alison Fragale doesn’t get enough love. At Book Society, we\u2019re all about amplifying bold, brilliant voices \u2013 especially those of women challenging the status quo \u2013 and this book does exactly that. Guzman selected “Likeable Badass” as the first pick for Book Society\u2019s \u201cLeading Ladies\u201d book club because it speaks directly to the experience of so many women navigating leadership, identity, and self-worth. It may not be on every bestseller list (yet!), but in our eyes, it\u2019s required reading for anyone who\u2019s ready to own their voice and show up as their full, unapologetic self.<\/p>\n What are some upcoming events, programs or partnerships that you would like to share?<\/strong><\/p>\n Beyond the shelves and wine glasses, Book Society is proud to be a gathering place. We host a wide range of events \u2212 from author and expert talks to literary-themed yoga and meditation \u2212 and offer a Book Club Package program where local groups can reserve space for their own meetings. Check out a list of all upcoming events on our site<\/a>, but here is a sampling:<\/p>\n And for those who want to bring the magic home, Book Society\u2019s book and wine subscription program offers monthly or bi-monthly curated pairings, complete with tasting notes and a custom Book Society tote.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Independent bookstores are the heartbeats of their communities. 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