Jolene's, a bookstore and cafe in Newark, Ohio, will host a grand opening on Saturday, August 29. Located at 5 S. 3rd St., Jolene's carries titles for all ages along with jewelry, toys, apparel, candles, and other gifts, while its cafe serves a variety of hot and iced beverages. There is a dedicated children's area and space for customers to sit, read, and work.
Owner Megan Basinger was inspired to open Jolene's after a visit to a "beautiful little shop" combining books, drinks, and a space for children to hang out and play. "I remember thinking, I wish we had something like this closer to home," she wrote. "Then that thought turned into, I wish I could spend my days in a place like this. And that's how Jolene's began."
The grand opening on August 29 will feature a ribbon cutting and signing with author Shelli Netko, who grew up in Newark. The festivities will begin at 10 a.m. and continue until 6 p.m.
"I want Jolene's to feel like everyone's store," Basinger said. "Featuring hometown authors is important because local authors represent our voices, inspire future writers, and strengthen the sense of community that makes Newark so special."