Independent bookstores are vital to their communities, offering culture and connection while creating local jobs and contributing to sales tax revenue. They foster literacy, encourage diverse voices, connect readers personally to books, and advocate for the freedom to read and access to literature.

Every week, we highlight an indie bookstore to showcase its uniqueness and gather book recommendations from its owners.

This week, we meet Kate Snyder, the owner of Plaid Elephant Books in Danville, Kentucky!

What’s your store’s story?

Opened in 2021, Plaid Elephant Books holds the title of the only independent children’s bookstore in Central Kentucky. Being a mom-owned business, we are committed to nurturing our community. Nestled in downtown Danville, we’ve quickly established ourselves as a local hub for family-friendly events and programs.

What makes your independent bookstore special?

Shopping at a bookstore transcends mere transactions; it’s about creating memorable experiences. This is where physical stores shine compared to online retailers. At Plaid Elephant Books, we strive to offer a magical experience for visitors. Children often don’t have many dedicated spaces, and they enjoy our kid-sized furniture, interactive play areas (like the Tiny Zoo!), and the special “hunt” for our mascot, Penelope the Plaid Elephant, who is cleverly hidden throughout the store.

What’s your favorite section in your store?

I have a soft spot for our middle-grade section. These readers are on the cusp of diving deeper into literature. It’s where they discover beloved characters like Harry Potter, journey to Narnia, bond with Wilbur, and share laughs with Dogman. This section features a dedicated room with a game table, a cozy nugget couch for relaxation, and twinkling lights to add to the atmosphere!

What book do you love to recommend to customers and why?

I highly recommend the Greenwild series by Pari Thomson; it’s an imaginative middle-grade fantasy series that captivates with its creativity.

For picture books, I adore “I Eat Poop” by Mark Pett for its amusing title and heartfelt message about empathy on the playground.

As for early readers, I can’t resist the grumpy cat in “Flubby Is Not a Good Pet!” by Jennifer E. Morris.

What book do you think deserves more spotlight and why?

There’s a young adult novel that I believe everyone should read: “Dear Medusa” by Olivia A. Cole. It’s a poignant verse novel that explores the challenging aftermath of sexual trauma. Although it’s intense, it sparked meaningful discussions between my teenage daughter and me.

Why is it essential to shop at local, independent bookstores?

Especially when it comes to children’s books, nothing compares to the tactile experience of browsing in-store. Touching the flaps, feeling the paper, and examining the illustrations up close are irreplaceable experiences that online shopping simply can’t replicate. For sound books? You need to press the buttons directly!

Moreover, independent bookstores significantly enrich their communities. We host events, link readers with authors, sponsor local initiatives, and inject life into our downtown landscapes.

What upcoming events or programs does your store have planned this quarter?

Our main event is our third Anniversary Celebration, which we celebrate as a birthday party for our mascot, Penelope the Plaid Elephant. It’s set for Aug. 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Attendees can create their own birthday crowns or design personalized bookmarks while enjoying snacks and winning prizes, while supplies last.