An interview with Nan's Book Shop

Biblio checks in with Nan's Book Shop to learn more about their book business, collecting interests and more! To view and shop their inventory, click here.

When did you get started in bookselling?

I started purchasing books in 2002, and began selling online in 2003. I learned a lot about purchasing books in those early years, and, because I have some offbeat interests, still purchase things that have a small interest group. It gives me the bonus of having books in many different categories.

What drew you to bookselling?

My parents were avid readers and I became one as well at an early age. I remember we would go to Krochs & Brentanos and my parents would let me loose to get whatever interested me, regardless of age appropriateness. I don't recall that they even looked at what I chose! I most often chose non-fiction books; I bought fiction when I was alone!

Did you have any mentors in becoming a bookseller?

It was primarily a lot of trial and error. One individual has been helpful in many ways, including getting me to participate in book fairs. We can be found at Chicago's Printer's Row Book Fest every year, by the children's stage.

What are your specialties as a dealer?

We have books in most genres, but concentrate more on children's books, history, religions, gardening, art, photography, and anything else that appeals to me.

What is your favorite part of being a bookseller?

Buying boxes of used books and the fun of seeing what I got! Also, we love talking with customers and finding books for them. We appreciate our customers and are careful with our descriptions and with packing orders.

Do you have an open storefront or have you in the past?

We are in the slow process of opening a book shop in an addition of our home; it was originally a dentist office.

What is your favorite bookshop (other than your own)?

My favorite book store is Prairie Archives in Springfield, IL. They have a large store, loads of used books, and reasonable prices.

What's your favorite book you personally own? Would you sell it, if the price were right?

I have a book called Zigzag Journeys to - somewhere (can't recall where!). It's a very old, well-illustrated children's book and I've never seen it for sale anywhere. I can't imagine selling it, but if the price were outrageous. . . !

What one book would you buy if price were no object?

I would buy a full set, in as new condition. of L. Frank Baum's Oz books.

If you were stranded on a desert island and could bring three books, what would they be?

Girl of the Limberlost by Gene Stratton Porter, a bible written in chronological order, and Grimm's Fairy Tales. This is offthe top of my head and would probably change.