I wanted to take a few moments and share with you all the news of my business project. I am giddy with excitement, and really think this will be a wonderful thing. I hope to be opening the doors in the beginning of November. Please read on, here is the outline of the business:

My goal is to create a community catering to readers and writers. At its heart is a bookstore, specializing in used books and featuring new work by independent, new and/or local authors. It will also be a location to comfortably host signings, book launches and lectures.

I envision a space dedicated to classes and workshops focused on all types of writing and taught by local authors, editors and agents. The classroom will include a variety of reference tools and resources for writers and students. When not filled with students, this room will be available for writers to use as a sanctuary for their creative spirit and work. Finally, the store will partner with the surrounding schools and centers to promote literacy and creative expression for children.

I am not a novice at this business. I managed a bookstore for five years in Eastern Canada, then owned and operated my own successful used bookstore in southern Alberta.

I am now in Virginia Beach and have identified several possible locations, begun gathering stock, and made initial and promising contacts with instructors.

I will be starting a Kickstarter project once I have some rental and renovation numbers confirmed.

If any of you have any advice or suggestions as to what sorts of rewards I should offer for Kickstarter donations, I would appreciate the help. Also, if any of you have a writing reference book(s) that you would recommend I have for my patrons, I would love to hear from you.

And of course, I am interested in being an outlet for the sale (and promotion) of your books, so please contact me.

Michelle L. Johnson