bookend | a support for the end of a row of books to keep them upright

Hello Book Lovers,

I wanted to take a moment to share with you the story behind the name "The Bookend" and how this bookstore came to be, albeit in a different form than originally envisioned.

The idea for The Bookend was born out of a passion for books and a desire to bring a cozy, independent bookstore to South Scottsdale in Arizona. I saw a gap in our community—a lack of used bookstores, especially ones that were locally owned and not part of big chains.  The name 'The Bookend' reflects not only a physical structure to support books, akin to its namesake, but also a place that metaphorically supports and nurtures the joy of reading. It serves as a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike to connect and discuss literature.

Initially, my dream was to establish a brick and mortar bookstore right here in South Scottsdale on the quaint corner of Miller and McDowell next to the ice cream store, Fatty Daddys. I envisioned hundreds of shelves filled with thousands of books spanning various genres like history, philosophy, religion, and science fiction, alongside well-loved literary classics, hidden rare gems, and recommendations from fellow book enthusiasts like you. Beyond books, I imagined creating a welcoming space where people could gather, enjoy a cup of coffee in a cozy café area, and discover new music with a corner for local musicians to share their talents. I envisioned hosting reading group book clubs, local author signings, and community events to foster a vibrant literary hub where ideas could flourish and connections could be made.

Unfortunately, despite my best efforts, the location I had in mind didn’t come to fruition. It turns out, the property owner preferred another tattoo and barber parlor over a bookstore—a harsh reminder that sometimes, the physical precedes the intellectual and spiritual pursuits.

Undeterred by this setback, I've brought my passion for books online. While The Bookend isn't yet a physical store, it thrives as an online haven for second-hand books. Now, the challenge is competing against online giants like Amazon and numerous 'independent' bookstores tied to platforms such as Ebay, Etsy, Abebooks, and Biblio. However, at The Bookend—a genuinely independent online bookstore—you'll discover thoughtfully curated selections, literary treasures, and possibly your next favorite read.

Thank you for being a part of The Bookend journey. Whether you’re browsing my online shelves or dreaming alongside me of a future local brick and mortar store, I’m grateful for your support and love for books. Together, let’s continue to celebrate the magical joy of reading and the stories that connect us all.

Read until the end!

AJFIII
Owner/Manager, The Bookend