Independent Bookstore Feature: Uncorked Book Lounge

Independent booksellers are the bloodline of stories, bringing them from warehouses to shelves right in your neighborhood. More than that, they become community centers where like-minded folks gather at bookish events.

The Lakeshore community is home to several independent bookstores. Each has its distinctive personality, and all carry the common theme—literacy is good for the community.

Fresh Water Press chatted with Carrie Paczkowski at Uncorked Book Lounge in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, about her soon-to-open bookstore.

FWP: Why did you decide to open a bookstore? How long have you been in business?

Carrie: I love to read and buy books and have always loved going to bookstores and visiting unique bookstores when we travel. When I heard the bookstore in Two Rivers was closing, I was sad because it was a place I loved to shop, and I believe every town should have a bookstore. I jokingly tossed the idea of opening a bookstore to my book club friends and they kept encouraging me, and here we are! I have spent the last two months renovating the space and learning how to run a bookstore/wine bar, and I will open on May 18.

FWP: Do you specialize in anything special or unique?

Carrie: I carry all types of books, not just a specific genre. I read everything so I want to carry everything (fiction, romance, mystery, fantasy, nonfiction, etc.). I also will carry unique gifts in the store, many with a bookish theme but also other things I love: great-smelling candles, greeting cards, puzzles, coffee mugs, funny stickers, and nice pens, among other items. One unique thing about my store is that I have a wine bar where people can enjoy a glass of wine, beer, seltzer, or nonalcoholic beverage while they visit. The store and wine bar will also sell bottles of wine and wine-themed gifts. The retail wine was chosen to offer an alternative to the wine you can find in many local grocery stores.

FWP: What are the top things you look at when deciding what books to stock and which to face-display?

Carrie: I love to talk to people about books and ask them what they are reading or what they like to read. I also pay attention to which books are selling at other bookstores, which books are popular on Goodreads and trending on social media. My TBR list is huge, and now my TGFTS (To Get For The Store) list is always growing as well! Displays are driven by popular books, upcoming events or holidays, and anything beautiful because just like a pretty wine label . . . a good book cover will definitely make me pick up a book and see what it’s about.

Are you a bookstore owner? Fresh Water Press would love to feature your story. Do you have a favorite bookstore you’d like to learn more about? Let us know at contact@freshwaterpressllc.com, and we’ll reach out to request an interview.