Storyline Bookshop hosted its grand opening celebration on Saturday at 2108 Tremont Center in Upper Arlington, Ohio. Owner and founder Janine Sickmeyer posted on Facebook at the end of the day: "YOU ALL!!! WOW! What a day!! Our Grand Opening Day was better than we could have ever dreamed!! Thank you to the community for the support and to everyone who came, bought, shared thoughts, gave hugs, ahhh!! It was an incredible day full of books and smiles. We sold our first rare book within 30 minutes of opening! And heard SO MANY TIMES people say: 'Thank you for bringing a new independent bookshop to the community.'
"There is no better compliment than hearing everyone say the curation is diverse and they found things they've never seen in other bookstores!! (WE LOVE BOOKS!! CAN YOU TELL?) As we close the doors tonight, we are so thankful for all of the support and happiness you all brought us today. We hope to bring you all the same joy and happiness everyday 8am-8pm."
Last week, in anticipation of the grand opening, Sickmeyer told Columbus Business First that opening the bookstore "is a dream come true for me." She had previously launched software company NextChapter in 2016, sold it in 2019 and since then had been investing in other startups through Overlooked Ventures, a venture capital fund she co-founded. During this time, however, she had been scouting for the right time and place to open a bookstore.
"I'd looked for a long time, but couldn't find the right fit," she said. "When I saw this space was available, I knew it would be perfect." In addition to its genre- and age-spanning title selection, the 2,500-square-foot space also features a collection of first editions and collectibles. Storyline Bookshop's centerpiece is the Skylight Room, which has a stage and will be the center for author visits, live music or other events.
"It looks small from the outside but when you walk in we want it to feel like it keeps going and going," Sickmeyer added.