What started as a simple conversation between friends led to something much more than they ever expected. The Town of Trilith has become known as a community of creatives, where makers live, create, and inspire the world. Residents Shelly Brown, Carmen Coe, and Tela Kayne wondered "How is it that a town driven by storytelling did not have a repository for the stories themselves?"
Yes, Trilith Studios is across the street, but the heart of the stories that so often inspire these larger formats frequently has a much humbler beginning. So, these three friends embarked on something that seemed unthinkable in the digital age. These neighbors opted to contribute to their town by creating Scholar & Scribe Bookstore.
An independent bookstore located down the paseo off Trilith Parkway, Scholar & Scribe reiterates the importance of the art of storytelling and the power of the written word. Moreover, to build a fellowship amongst readers and writers alike, this bookshop strives to build a continued community instead of one-time encounters. “There is something so powerful about doing life together that is missing in today’s world,” Carmen Coe, one of the owners, said. Tela Kayne, another owner, remarked, “I feel like there’s an intimacy to a local bookstore that allows you to connect more than in a bigger environment.” This viewpoint allows them to pay attention, to see the patterns in customers, and to know how best to serve their community. With events recognizing both local authors, such as Taber Cheo and Michael Albanese, and more well-known authors, such as Mary Kay Andrews and Latasha Morrison, Scholar & Scribe aspires to draw those who bond over the written word together.
Driven not only by their passion for books, the three owners craved to create a place that fosters literacy to the benefit of not only the thirteen children shared between them but also the many kids who live and play in the community. They recognize the influence books have on a person’s character and strive to curate a collection that will enrich the lives of customers of all ages.
Through storytime programs occurring on Tuesdays at 10 AM, author visitations, such as one from Bob Goff; “Stuffy Sleepovers,” where kids can drop off their stuffed animals for a night, and an extensive kids' section within the bookstore, they aim to inspire children to find identity in the characters within their stories and in themselves while concurrently instilling a love for reading. Carmen said reading “makes children feel very accomplished in finishing something.” This notion proves factual time and time again as children continue to grow empowered in their knowledge, their abilities, and their achievements.
When asked about their favorite children’s book, Tela stated hers is Goodnight Moon, a simple and poetic work that lends a new layer to unravel with every read, while Carmen said hers are the What Was…? books, which enable a whole new perspective on the subjects.
To learn more about events, exclusive memberships for both adults and children, and all things Scholar & Scribe, visit their website, scholarandscribe.com.