Independent Bookstore, Jack’s Books, Announces Opening Date in Florence

Independent Bookstore, Jack’s Books, Announces Opening Date in Florence

For residents and visitors of Florence, there’s something to look forward to this fall season. Jack’s Books, the city’s only independent, locally owned bookstore, recently announced its opening date as the 26th of October after several months of planning and renovations. The upcoming bookstore aims to provide a unique and engaging literary environment, filling a long-standing gap in the local book marketplace.

Anticipation for the New Opening

First announced by owner Colton Cauthen in April 2023, Jack’s Books quickly sparked interest and enthusiasm within the local community. Thousands of individuals have followed the bookstore’s Facebook page for regular updates, culminating in the excitement surrounding the recently revealed opening date.

“This is just exciting,” shared Cauthen. “There’s a little bit of a hint of terror, you know, getting everything done in time.” The soon-to-be bookstore’s owner juggles anticipation and meticulous final preparations as the opening day draws near.

Filling a Literary Void

Currently, Florence residents have a limited choice for sourcing books, often relying on major retailers like Barnes & Noble or big-box stores. However, an independent bookstore provides a unique advantage, particularly in the curation of a diverse range of books and the fostering of a vibrant, local literary community.

Florence once housed independent bookstores in the late 1990s and early 2000s, but recent years haven’t seen a recurrence until now. Cauthen’s initiative to bring the bookstore to the city breaks this trend, promising to contribute to a rich literary culture within Florence.

A Glimpse into Jack’s Books

Jack’s Books is set to house between 2,500 and 3,000 books in its prime location, offering a balanced assortment of new and used books curated personally by Cauthen. Catering to a variety of readers, the store will also offer a selection of gift items in its inventory.

As for its location, Jack’s Books will be residing between Dargan Street’s Wholly Smokin’ and Leaf Lounge. Though major interior renovations for the bookstore are currently ongoing, Cauthen has managed to keep most of the details a surprise. “It’s just such a different thing experiencing it in person,” Cauthen admits. “I’m trying to save that sort of special experience.”

While opening hours and further specific details regarding the launch day are yet to be confirmed, eager customers can currently purchase audiobooks on the bookstore’s website. At the heart of Florence’s downtown, Jack’s Books will be located at 152 S. Dargan Street.