She’s done it again! Kathy – the intrepid reader/reviewer/blogger/traveler at BermudaOnion - recently sent me a Spotlight on Bookstores post about Malaprop’s Bookstore/Café in Asheville, North Carolina. This is Kathy’s FOURTH Spotlight on Bookstores guest post (thank you, Kathy!) … she truly practices what she preaches about supporting the local independent bookstores that offer personality along with their paperbacks (yes, and hardcovers, audiobooks, sidelines, etc. I was in an alliterative mood just now).
Kathy’s posts are always accompanied by gorgeous bright photos that show off the unique nature of the store. I’m including them all here, along with some other tidbits and links gleaned from the Malaprop’s website. Here are Kathy’s thoughts:
A trip to Asheville, North Carolina wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Malaprop’s. Located in the heart of Asheville’s vibrant and eclectic downtown, Malaprop’s has been an Asheville landmark since 1982.
Since it’s filled to the brim with quality books, you’re sure to find just what you’re looking for in this inviting bookstore, and if you need help, there’s plenty of friendly and knowledgeable (not to mention multi-lingual) staff there to help you out. The store boasts a huge “regional interest” section and plenty of autographed books.
Malaprop’s hosts events almost daily and is a stop for almost every author who tours the South. These events are lively and fun and often draw a large crowd. There’s also a small cafe with free wi-fi for customers.
It’s probably a good thing we don’t live closer because I’d probably be in there every day if we did!
Downtown Asheville
This first photo is a group of musicians hanging out on a corner in downtown Asheville. This so perfectly captures the arty feel of the city. Asheville is in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a beautiful area – outdoor activities include hiking, white water rafting, and photographing the natural beauty of the area. The city itself has many galleries, restaurants (known for a local food movement), and art/theater centers.
Isn’t this Flat Iron sculpture fun!? It’s on Asheville’s “Wall Street,” across from their own Flatiron building (an 8-story structure, while Manhattan’s Flatiron is 22 stories).
Malaprop's exterior
Malaprop’s is located on Haywood Road in downtown Asheville. Check out this history of Malaprop’s, complete with the story of how the bookstore moved to this location – the support within the community is a two-way street!
The same article (a letter from the owner, Emoke B’Racz), indicates:
As a political exile from a communist country, I cannot overemphasize my passion to provide a space where freedom of expression is supported, where important literature—from authors backed by major publishers to those who self-publish—is available to all, where censorship has no place, where respect and service are practiced daily, where women feel safe, where all are welcome, and where books are the stars.
We’ll end with some photos of the interior store – it’s a lively spot! Eye-catching displays, welcoming chairs (although I’m partial to the photo of readers squatting and leaning down to browse the shelves …. bookshop yoga!), and a sense of fun show in the photos.
Learn more about Malaprop’s on their website, view their video event archive, and follow them on
Twitter.
Thanks, Kathy! I wonder where you’ll take us next?!
Asheville is a great town. Thanks so much for sharing Malaprop’s, Kathy! I love how truly “independent” they are in the truest sense of the word. It looks like a terrific place to leisurely browse the shelves. I was delighted when they invited me to do an author event, and then so sad because I couldn’t get it worked into my tour/flight schedules.
I truly enjoyed this post and love this feature so much. Our vacations always include golf and bookstores. I haven’t visited North Carolina yet, but I know there is good golf. Because of this, I also know there are good bookstores. Now to convince my husband about our next vacation. LOL
Thanks for posting this, Dawn! Everyone needs to experience Asheville and Malaprop’s a big part of that wonderful community. I’d move to Asheville if we could figure out how to make a living there.
Asheville sounds like a town with a godd sense of humor…and a great bookstore!
I haven’t been to Asheville since I’ve been a kid. Looks like a great place and a great store!
oh wow! I am even more excited to visit this store in June! Yay! Great piece!
Very nice looking store, and I think it’s neat that they have events almost daily. I would love the chance to visit one of these days! Thanks for sharing this spotlight, Kathy and Dawn!