Two women with a dream of owning a bookstore have now brought to life the Olde Towne Book Shop. A safe and cozy environment awaits readers of all ages, genders, races, religions, and sexual orientations. Let this be an inspiration to all those who aspire to pursue their passions and bring their dreams to fruition.
How We Got Here
I could tell you a whole fairy tale story of how I walked into a bookstore and ran into the business partner of my dreams, but...that basically sums it up. The two of us are local authors who love our community but notice it's severe lack of independent bookstores. We're ready to change that.
As an author, educator, and librarian, I've spent over a decade counting down the days until I could open my own bookstore. I envisioned a cozy spot, its walls lined with shelves of books, with warm lighting, some plants, and the smell of complimentary coffee.
But what's even more important than the ambiance, is the unique combination of services and expertise we'll be offering our shoppers.
About Us
I'm Jamie, and I'm a proud multi-genre indie author. I've been publishing fiction for a decade, including a USA Today best-selling series. I've written contemporary romance, young adult fantasy, nonfiction, and a very special children's book. Former experience as a librarian and an educator specializing in language and literacy has prepared me to serve the needs of readers of all ages. I'm the one to come to when you want to find "that one book with the blue cover" or when you want to help your child build more confidence in their reading.
My business partner is Cera. She's an up-and-coming fantasy and romance writer whose debut novels have won the hearts of her readers. A Navy Veteran, her life took a dramatic shift when she switched her focus to fiction-writing, and her instant 5-star successes prove her talents on the page. Cera's quick to connect with others and understands how to help them meet their needs. She's filled with brilliant ideas and only needs a store to bring those plans to fruition.
Our experience with the book industry is only further complemented by my librarian masters degree. No, they don't just teach you how to alphabetize books (though I'm very good at it). Running a bookstore is a lot like running a library. Both offer a curated collection of books that satisfy the reading needs of our diverse bibliophiles. Both provide a safe space to explore new titles, socialize with friends, and attend events. And both go above and beyond the bookshelves to support their communities.
About Our Store
People claim physical books are going out of style, but did you know brick and mortar bookstores have been back on the rise for several years now? They took a hit when [a certain major online retailer] first exploded, but the flood of poor quality ebooks (I'm looking at you, AI) and the nostalgia for holding onto a fresh paperback has brought people back into the shops. Custom editions and limited releases have made the most avid collectors extra eager for BIH (Book in Hand!).
Introducing...
Our
book shop brings a product and service to Olde Towne Slidell that
doesn't yet exist. This booming community features the town's favorite
restaurants, bars, and stores. It's also the site for annual Mardi
Gras parades, an even bigger St Patrick's Day parade, arts markets,
block parties, and so much more. It's a popular destination spot for
those traveling across the country and those heading down to New
Orleans (only 30 minutes away). Yet...all this excitement is packed
into a few block radius.
This perfect location has already expressed interest in having a book store, and we've got a great one planned for them. With options to buy in-store and online, unique book-themed gifts, custom book boxes, and regularly held events, Olde Towne Book Shop will be one more must-stop for all visitors.
We have a detailed business plan. We have our initial capital. And we have so much ramped-up energy to get moving on this.
Here's what we need
Our shop is coming together fast! The interior is painted. The floors are done. Bookshelves are on their way. In coming weeks, our space will begin truly looking like the book shop we've envisioned.
We plan to offer quality new and preowned books at all price points. Those books will be organized in a clear, attractive way (alphabetically, of course) making browsing easy and relaxing. And the store will have comfortable spots to sit in a quiet corner and read. We plan to team up with other local small businesses to offer literary-related merchandise, and we're eager to turn the spotlight onto the many local authors in the greater New Orleans area.
Admittedly, we have high standards and won't settle for less when it comes to our cozy book boutique. That's why we've raked through our budget plan with a fine-toothed comb to guarantee every penny benefits the store and the experience our shoppers will have there. We're acquiring the majority of our funding through donations and grants, but we don't just want to take; we want to give back! That's why we're offering an array of book-related perks that you can claim now until the day of our Grand Opening. At that point, we'll start the process of shipping everyone their rewards.
Our goal is to raise $15,000 to dedicate to our inventory, store furnishings, and our online store. $5, $50, or $500, your donation will be put to good use while also proving to the naysayers that brick and mortar book stores are still loved and still needed.
Perks
Your donation will qualify you for a 10% discount on the first 10 books you purchase (in-store or online). This discount will become valid on the first day we open for business and will have no expiration. Upon collection of your contact information, you'll be kept updated on the store's grand opening announcements as well as further instructions on how to use your discount.
This discount overrides the 10% and gives you 20% off your first 20 books purchased in-store or online. This discount will become valid on the first day we open for business and will have no expiration. Upon collection of your contact information, you'll be kept updated on the store's grand opening announcements as well as further instructions on how to use your discount.
This discount overrides the previous and will give you 10% off your first 10 books purchased in-store and online. PLUS, you'll receive a free signed copy of one of our books. Even if you aren't an avid reader, it makes a perfect gift for the book lover in your life.
The discount will become valid on the first day we open for business and will have no expiration. Upon collection of your contact information, you'll be kept updated on the store's grand opening announcements as well as further instructions on how to use your discount.
This reward overrides the previous and will give you 20% off your first 20 books purchased in-store and online. PLUS, you'll receive a free signed copy of one of our books.
The discount will become valid on the first day we open for business and will have no expiration. Upon collection of your contact information, you'll be kept updated on the store's grand opening announcements as well as further instructions on how to use your discount.
Now we're really having fun. This donation comes with a number of goodies. This reward overrides the previous and will give you 20% off your first 20 books purchased in-store and online. PLUS, you'll receive signed copies of 2 of our books. PLUS PLUS, we're creating limited edition swag specifically for our loyal backers. (Sneak peeks to come!)
The discount will become valid on the first day we open for business and will have no expiration. Upon collection of your contact information, you'll be kept updated on the store's grand opening announcements as well as further instructions on how to use your discount.
Free books for a year! This reward overrides the previous and will give you 20% off your first 20 books purchased in-store and online and an array of limited edition book swag.
But here's the best part: You'll provide us with your favorite genre(s), authors, and any other preferences. Then every month, for 12 months, we'll send you a surprise paperback. We love this idea so much, you'll probably find more swag in your monthly delivery too.
The discount will become valid on the first day we open for business and will have no expiration. Upon collection of your contact information, you'll be kept updated on the store's grand opening announcements as well as further instructions on how to use your discount.
[Due to the number of shipments involved, we can only offer this reward to backers in the United States.]
For our most gracious backers, we will be endlessly thankful. In return, we want to make something special for you.
This reward will get you a custom book box designed with you in mind. You'll pick your favorite genre(s), authors, and book preferences, and we'll get to work designing a box filled with literary goodies. This one will make you feel like a true VIP.
Plus, of course, you'll receive 20% off your first 20 books purchased in-store and online, signed copies of 2 of our books, and a pile of limited edition swag.
The discount will become valid on the first day we open for business and will have no expiration. Upon collection of your contact information, you'll be kept updated on the store's grand opening announcements as well as further instructions on how to use your discount.
[Due to fragility and the cost of international shipping, we can only offer this reward to backers in the United States.]
Highlights
See all activity28FAQ
Where are you?
- We are located at 2254 1st Street, Slidell, LA 70458. We're in a building called Olde Towne Lane. Come through the left or middle door, and you'll find us on the left side! Of course, we aren't open yet, so there's not much to see, but you're always welcome to come say "hi".
When will you open?
- We expect our online store to go live sometime in April. The Grand Opening party for the brick & mortar store is planned for May.
What can I donate?
We're accepting all books from all genres right now. Email us at admin@oldetownebooks.com to schedule a drop-off time. If you feel you have something non-book related that could benefit the store, let us know! And finally, by claiming one of the many perks from this campaign, your contribution is helping us start strong.
When will I receive my perks?
- 10% off 10 and 20% off 20 coupons will be available upon our first day open. You will receive yours digitally with instructions how to apply it to your order(s). Please be sure our email address (admin@oldetownebooks.com) is on your whitelist so these important messages don't get lost in your spam folder. Additionally, the store will have a list of patrons who've received these rewards. You will be able to reach out to us anytime for help.
- Physical perks, including books, swag, and book boxes will be shipped as soon as possible after the store opens. Fulfillment will require time for confirming your information, processing, packing, customizations, and shipping. We expect the shipments to begin going out within 2-4 weeks after opening but they may take as long as 8-10 weeks. If we expect any delays, we will communicate this with you immediately.
Activity
Your donation will qualify you for a 10% discount on the first 10 books you purchase (in-store or online). This discount will become valid on the first day we open for business and will have no expiration. Upon collection of your contact information, you'll be kept updated on the store's grand opening announcements as well as further instructions on how to use your discount.
This discount overrides the 10% and gives you 20% off your first 20 books purchased in-store or online. This discount will become valid on the first day we open for business and will have no expiration. Upon collection of your contact information, you'll be kept updated on the store's grand opening announcements as well as further instructions on how to use your discount.
This discount overrides the previous and will give you 10% off your first 10 books purchased in-store and online. PLUS, you'll receive a free signed copy of one of our books. Even if you aren't an avid reader, it makes a perfect gift for the book lover in your life.
The discount will become valid on the first day we open for business and will have no expiration. Upon collection of your contact information, you'll be kept updated on the store's grand opening announcements as well as further instructions on how to use your discount.
This reward overrides the previous and will give you 20% off your first 20 books purchased in-store and online. PLUS, you'll receive a free signed copy of one of our books.
The discount will become valid on the first day we open for business and will have no expiration. Upon collection of your contact information, you'll be kept updated on the store's grand opening announcements as well as further instructions on how to use your discount.
Now we're really having fun. This donation comes with a number of goodies. This reward overrides the previous and will give you 20% off your first 20 books purchased in-store and online. PLUS, you'll receive signed copies of 2 of our books. PLUS PLUS, we're creating limited edition swag specifically for our loyal backers. (Sneak peeks to come!)
The discount will become valid on the first day we open for business and will have no expiration. Upon collection of your contact information, you'll be kept updated on the store's grand opening announcements as well as further instructions on how to use your discount.
Free books for a year! This reward overrides the previous and will give you 20% off your first 20 books purchased in-store and online and an array of limited edition book swag.
But here's the best part: You'll provide us with your favorite genre(s), authors, and any other preferences. Then every month, for 12 months, we'll send you a surprise paperback. We love this idea so much, you'll probably find more swag in your monthly delivery too.
The discount will become valid on the first day we open for business and will have no expiration. Upon collection of your contact information, you'll be kept updated on the store's grand opening announcements as well as further instructions on how to use your discount.
[Due to the number of shipments involved, we can only offer this reward to backers in the United States.]
For our most gracious backers, we will be endlessly thankful. In return, we want to make something special for you.
This reward will get you a custom book box designed with you in mind. You'll pick your favorite genre(s), authors, and book preferences, and we'll get to work designing a box filled with literary goodies. This one will make you feel like a true VIP.
Plus, of course, you'll receive 20% off your first 20 books purchased in-store and online, signed copies of 2 of our books, and a pile of limited edition swag.
The discount will become valid on the first day we open for business and will have no expiration. Upon collection of your contact information, you'll be kept updated on the store's grand opening announcements as well as further instructions on how to use your discount.
[Due to fragility and the cost of international shipping, we can only offer this reward to backers in the United States.]
