I was on my way home today via a different route, and there was a sign that caught my eye - "Book Box". As a voracious reader, I rarely pass up the
chance to visit a used book store, and this was no exception.
I am happy to report that Pflugerville now has a quaint, comfortable used book store. Frankly, this is the kind of place where I am likely to become a regular customer. With prices on the discount shelf at $1 or $2, and most other prices in the $5 and under range, this is my kind of place. They also purchase and give store credit for used books. My wife and I are known to spend entire Saturday mornings perusing garage sales for books, so this store is a dream come true.
While I was there, I spoke for awhile with Beth Lee, the owner/manager. She is an engaging, down-to-earth lady and I love the fact that she is following her passion with this business.
There are a few extras that will surely grow the business over time, including free coffee, free wifi access, a kids' section with some toys, and some VERY comfortable chairs set up for reading. The store features art from locals and kiddos, too, and Beth told me that they repaint the ceiling tiles (currently featuring kids' artwork) every few weeks. They offer a storytime that is geared to kids 2-6 on Thursdays and Saturdays at noon, and they are open to having church, scouting, and other community events or meetings.
In a nutshell, Beth has done a very nice job of providing a casual atmosphere that could become a terrific venue or hangout for smaller groups. While I was there, Beth accepted some items for donations to our troops, which reinforced the fact that she is making an effort to be an integral part of the community with her venture, and I applaud this.
Beth's Book Box first opened about six months ago, and my sole complaint is that I didn't manage to find it sooner. Books are my vice, and I left with a couple of good reads today.
Beth's is located near the corner of Windermere and Pecan Street, on the north side of Pecan. There used to be a Greek restaurant in the space, which makes for some interesting architecture with the store layout. The physical address is 15803 Windermere, and they can be reached at 512-989-7324. Their primary website is http://bethsbookbox.com.
They are closed on Mondays, open Tues-Sat 10am-6pm, Sundays 12-5pm.
If you are a book addict, I highly recommend checking this place out.
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Jason- I always have to smell the used books to make sure they don't smell like mold or mildew since I am allergic to mold. That has been the biggest problem with used books for me. I love books too. Do you have a kindle?
I would love to visit this place.....what a cool little book store!
Jason: Sounds like Beth's Book Box is a great addition to Pflugerville. I remember I used to LOVE used CD shops.
Sounds like a great place Jason. I love these kind of "small town" shops.
I hope Beth's Book Box becomes a staple in Pflugerville!
Katerina - I got a Kindle DX for Christmas! Love it so far!
Ann - It's a neat little store - reminds me of something from the movies. :)
Chris Ann - Me, too!
Craig - I do, too, which is why I wanted to take the time to help promote the store.
Jason books are a good vice. I like to read but don't seem to find the time these days.
Oh man...this really looks cozy and inviting. I know that you are also a fan of Half-Price Books here in Austin but this looks like a warmer space!
Looks great. Used to love a store while living in Hermosa Beach Ca but the best used books here come from one of the local church resale shops - open every Friday and Saturday.
Sounds like a great place to hang out Jason. It was good of you to give her some attention and purchase some books.
Jason - I am a big fan of bookstores, too, and it looks like you have a winner there. A great addition to your Localism collection.
Jeff
Looks like a gem and a half. I would LOVE to get to more bookstores. And my kids love them too. And if coffee is involved, well then that could be half the day gone!
Jason...these small mom and pop stores are a lot of fun. They are also the foundation that built this country. Most of them are gone and so is this countries foundation. I patronize every small business that I am able to.
Jason, that looks comfy & cozy! Nice promotion for Beth! You read too!? wow!
Jason, you did a great job promoting the Book Box. I moved from Austin 1 1/2 years ago and miss some of the great little places like this.
Jason, I love used book stores! Beth's Book Box looks ideal for browsing for books and the comfy chairs makes me want to stay awhile! Nice addition for your Localism post.
Now you are talking my language! I love used book stores. Beth's looks like the kind of place that would seriously keep me from working as much as I should be!
Hi Jason... I love used bookstores... I can get lost in them for hours at a time! Looks like you made a great find!
I love places like this. They add so much to a community.
Jason,
The words "book store" and inexpensive don't belong in the same though!
More books for the same money, works for me.
Bill
Hi Jason...There were times in my distant past that I thought of opening up a shop similar to Beth's Book Box. Books are an addiction for me as they are for you. I'm glad you found this treasure. Others will find it now from your post. You described it very well.
Kte
It looks so comfy and homey. With all that free stuff, I'm surprised the place isn't premanently packed!
Lisa - Hopefully, it will be soon! I am doing my part to spread the word. :)
What a great store. I'm only sorry it's not near me!
Jason, I love used book stores. I just got back this evening from visiting my parents in Arizona and my husband was lugging my suitcase in. He was asking what in the heck is in here. I had to admit I bought some used books. I just read one by Billy Graham and found several by him and also one by his son plus about 8 other various books (lol).