Capital Books
Aside from two (soon to be three) expansive floors of varied titles, Capital Books on K Street in downtown Sacramento houses the Flamingo Lounge, a bright, upstairs space with glowing floor-to-ceiling windows that turn kaleidoscopic at night from neon Crest Theater marquis next door. Capital offers an in-store “Private Date Night” that includes an hour and a half of alone time with your loved one to browse and dine (bring your own meal) and 15% off any purchases.
The Bookery
Above the Bookery in Placerville, bookstore owner Celia Lux rents out a cozy studio apartment on Airbnb that includes dozens of hardbound books, lacy curtains in a bright window, and warm quilts for clear and crisp foothill nights. There are two dozen hardbound books in the nightstand alone, but below in the shop, one can browse a seemingly endless labyrinth of titles stacked into over-sized wooden shelves. Located in the midst of a historic Main Street, the Bookery is nestled among unique shops and places to dine—including the Enchanted Forest, a quirky forest themed restaurant where your waitress will gift you a twinkling tiara of colored LEDs while serving you honey mead.
Bird in Hand
For families, Chico’s Bird in Hand is a must see. Aside from an extensive offering of children’s books, toys, and unique gifts for all ages, Bird in Hand shares space with the National Yo-Yo Museum, which houses one of the largest yo-yos in the world, a 256 pound wooden NO Jive 3 in 1 that does in fact work. What’s worth seeing in the museum? Watch Joel Greene of Our California’s video taking a look inside and checking out a few tricks.
It’s hardly been easy times for any small business, let alone independent bookstores. Refinery29.com warns book store lovers that, “According to the American Booksellers Association, more than one independent bookstore has closed each week since the pandemic began, and 20 percent of independent bookstores across the country are in danger of closing.” Alternatives beyond shopping create exciting new opportunities for people wanting enriching adventures beyond the average consumer experience.
