Independent bookstores serve as vital parts of their communities. They enrich culture, create local employment and sales tax income, encourage reading and education, highlight a range of authors, connect readers with books personally, and actively advocate for accessible literature.

Each week, we spotlight an indie bookstore, showcasing what they uniquely offer and sharing their favorite book suggestions.

This week, we’re featuring Pressed located in Erie, Pennsylvania!

What’s your store’s backstory?

Opened in Erie in 2018, our aim is to inspire people to unplug from their devices and embrace the tactile joy of physical books, enjoyed alongside a comforting cup of coffee. We love when customers linger to discover what’s new (and old!), savoring the experience of reconnecting with their senses while browsing our selection of books and gifts.

What makes your independent bookstore stand out?

Our customers rave about the atmosphere in our shop; it’s contemporary and lively yet showcases classic literature! They’re encouraged to grab a coffee or hot drink from our full-service coffee shop as they peruse.

We’re recognized for our carefully curated variety of genres, along with playful literary gifts (our team delights in customers’ laughter while they browse), and our expansive children’s area, featuring our renowned reading tree. We take pride in enhancing Erie’s character beyond just a series of chain stores.

What’s your favorite area in the bookstore?

My favorite spot is the front area where we display our best offerings and welcome our visitors. However, I also adore the kids’ section—the reading tree and the charming mossy cobblestone carpet create an incredibly inviting atmosphere!

Why is supporting local independent bookstores crucial?

When people spend their money, they make a statement about what they want available in their community. If they appreciate having indie bookstores, supporting them financially is essential. Spending money at other places essentially signals a preference for closing those indie shops. As long as individuals recognize the impact of choosing not to shop locally, I have no qualms with it. But if they want to keep such shops alive because they enrich their community and enhance the shopping experience, they need to be willing to pay a little more for a book there. That’s the reality.

Here are some book recommendations from Pressed owner, Tracey Bowes:

• “Z: A Novel of Zelda Fitzgerald” by Therese Anne Fowler. It’s a gripping, well-crafted, entertaining, and informative read that often remains under the radar.
• “We Should All Be Feminists” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
• “The Women” by Kristin Hannah
• “The Fury” by Alex Michaelides