People's Book, which sells titles for all ages, opened last week at 7014-A Westmoreland Ave., Takoma Park, Md. An official ribbon-cutting and grand opening ceremony is planned for July 15.
The store offers a diverse selection of more than 12,000 books, with a special focus on children's literature, local interests, new releases, and independent magazines. The inventory also includes book-themed gifts, locally roasted coffee, kombucha, and other beverages and treats.
"We're so excited to provide readers of all ages opportunities to explore, learn, and connect with their neighbors," said owner Megan Bormet. "Helping kids and adults find books they love is what I like to do best, and I'm thrilled that we can do this at People's Book."
Bormet told DCist that she and her husband, Matthew, had felt the area needed a local bookstore that offered books with more age variety. Noting that as a former educator one of her favorite things about teaching was "finding the right book for the right kid at the right time," she added: "I'm hoping that any kid that comes in, whether they're a reader or non-reader, can connect with something in the store. This idea of connecting kids and adults with books that they love in our community of Takoma Park brings me a lot of joy.... It really is a place that we hope people can gather and connect. We've been all isolated for so long after Covid, so we're trying to create a place of belonging and gathering for people who have missed it."
The bookshop's name "pays homage to both the tongue-in-cheek nickname of the progressive neighborhood--the People's Republic of Takoma Park--and the defunct Washington pharmacy chain Peoples Drug, the Washingtonian noted.
"When we started thinking about the vibe of the store, we were thinking about Peoples Drug and that kind of modern retro vibe, which I hope comes through," Bormet said.
On the shop's website, Bormet notes: "If you notice an unusually large number of Eric Carle books in our store, know we have a special place in our hearts for his beautiful illustrations. His namesake Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, Massachusetts (my hometown), is where my husband, Matthew, and I tied the knot!"