Independent Bookstore-The Book Readers Venue

Snuggled into a small, quiet corner of First Street, Humble Texas is the independently owned bookstore, The Book Readers Venue.  I recently made the short drive from my home in Atascocita to Humble for a visit with the proud and gracious owner of this little gem of a bookstore, Sherrele Goloversic.  Sherrele owns and operates the bookstore alongside her 8-5 job in information technology.  The focus is on romance and romantic suspense featuring African-American authors.  Don't worry though, there is a book for everyone in her small in size, but big in variety, store.  Sherrele has a little bit of biography/memoir, fantasy and even a cozy corner where children's books are shelved.

 "We believe that when one book closes, another one (or 2 or 3) opens."

Although only at this location since September 2024, it's evident that Sherrele and her shop are an active part of the community.  I chose a Friday morning visit which happened to coincide with a women's empowerment meeting.  As I opened the door, I heard the sounds of happy conversation followed by a greeting from one of the ladies attending the meeting, in contrast to what you usually encounter when you come in the door of a corporate bookstore.  The meeting was just breaking up so Sherrele had a few minutes to visit.  

Open Friday through Sunday, from 10:00 AM-5:00 PM, the Venue hosts meetings and author events along with book sales.  I really love the idea of weaving your business into community goings on. It's part of being a good citizen and can't help but generate interest and book sales.  Sherrele seems to have done a great job on that score!

Even though she is, Sherrele's family wasn't what you might think of as "readers", instead they occupied themselves with puzzles and word problems. In addition, they were fortunate enough to have a set of encyclopedias (remember when that was the reference😉) which they lent out to neighbors who then thought they were wealthy. I would agree with those neighbors! 

One of the foundations of a great bookstore and bookseller is the ability to hand sell to a customer you've just met.  When I told Sherrele that I wasn't necessarily a romance reader, but did love a good bio or memoir, she was quick to pull two books from her shelves.  The first, was The Queen of Sugar Hill, a novel of Hattie McDaniel (think Gone With the Wind).  That happened to be such a perfect read for me, I never even glanced at the second book. I haven't read it yet, but it's on my TBR for next month.  Maybe there will be an upcoming review, who knows? 

The way in which The Book Readers Venue has become part of the local Humble community by offering other than books for sale truly surprised and impressed me.  Even with her limited space, Sherrele stocks candles made by a local craftsperson and little girl's dresses that are a fundraiser for a girl struggling with cystic fibrosis.  When I asked about interviewing her for Dee Reads, she was so very welcoming and worked me into her schedule without hesitation.  I don't believe you will find that kind of  care and involvement in many other bookstores.

 
You will never find yourself steered off course by visiting and following the direction of an independent bookseller.  Jump on board at The Book Readers Venue!  With Sherrele Goloversic at the helm you are sure to find the perfect book!