Leelanau Books in Leland launches children’s programs
From staff reports
In its fifth decade serving the community, Leelanau Books has reopened after new owners and management completed a major renovation including the addition of a “Back Porch” family activity center at its location on Main St in Leland.
Committed to being open in its same location year-round, the new owners want the bookshop to be a memorable part of the Leelanau experience.
“Leelanau Books was the first bookstore our four children set foot in,” said Kasey Morris, who bought the store with her husband John last summer. “We all love it, so we wanted to buy it to ensure it continues to be an asset to this community, even though we have zero experience in retail of any kind!”
“We’re thrilled to be able to double down on this terrific community asset that the late Prudy Mead started back in 1976 and that the Sebaly family nurtured from the ’90s until they sold it to us,” said John.
Beyond being a place for anyone to find a great book, store manager Paula Alflen has created exciting new children’s programs that combine live reading, fun characters, art, skits, singing and dancing—all delivered on the store’s beautiful new “back porch” addition.
“We want children and families of all ages to make reading a lifelong love by connecting books to these fun activities,” said Alflen. “We’ve hired truly gifted and diverse individuals (from teenagers to retirees) to help and they’re all having such a blast.”
Leelanau Books thrives by being a place to browse physical books, talk to a knowledgeable staff, and participate in readings, lectures, and family programs—things Amazon.com can’t provide.
The bookstor has been a valuable asset to the community for 42 years. In 1976 Leelanau Books was established by Prudy Mead, who provided a valuable service as the liaison between the publishing world and her local community. The store was run by her daughter, Sarah after her death. In 1996 the Sebaly family took over the business. With the goal of providing a beautiful atmosphere where their guests could relax while perusing books, they remodeled the interior and added espresso coffee service. During this time, the climate of commerce changed and books became available to the masses in multiple formats on the Internet.
From 2009-2015 independent bookstores have experienced a 35-percent growth based on three factors; community, curation and convening. With support and enthusiasm from the Morris family, Leelanau Books is making this independent bookshop a unique experience for children and their families by expanding upon these principles. The store was remodeled this winter providing a fresh new look and atmosphere. Leelanau Books will continue to be a store with great books, but will also strive to make each visit a memorable part of the Leland experience for residents and visitors. Exceptional customer service will be maintained along with a new “Back Porch” addition where Leelanau Books’ Youth Leaders will bring books to life through story times and unique learning opportunities featuring memorable characters, art, games, singing and dancing. Program offerings are designed to appeal to all ages. For more information or for a calendar of events, visit LeelanauBooks.com.
