May 2022 by Wil Ward
I developed an appetite for well curated bookstores while living in Seattle - and I've been to quite a few. And being the son of a lifelong librarian, my childhood home resembled a cozy library or bookstore, which is my measuring stick for judging other book collections. The Bookstore at the Berry Center is arguably the most impressive shop I have ever visited.How so? Well, I am of the opinion that a good book offers knowledge or wisdom (whether through stories, essays, or poems) to connect the reader to vital insights about themselves or the world they live in. For me, Wendell Berry has done this better than any other writer I have encountered. I sometimes judge a bookstore based on how many Wendell Berry books are on the bookshelves.Anyone who appreciates Wendell Berry will deeply appreciate the store. Near the entrance, a whole wall is dedicated to Wendell Berry's life work. On that shelf alone, I feel most people could find a fascinating read.But an unexpected feature of this bookstore is that the collection is curated by Wendell Berry's granddaughter, Virginia, who has done an incredible job selecting books for the rest of the bookstore. Though this book store is quaint, I feel like I could spend several days rummaging through the store finding new sources of insight and inspiration. You will feel at home here if you have an interest in gardening, farming, literature, community, justice, history, or nature. I was surprised to find many books I had never encountered before.On the second floor, there is a children's section, with books facing outward at eye level for children to explore, in Montessori fashion. Shockingly, my 20-month old daughter was just as excited about the bookstore as I was.During my visit, I met Emma, who was working at the front desk. She was incredibly kind, curious about my interests, and directed me to a book which I had never heard of, which was also exactly what I needed. At the Berry Center Bookstore, I felt I was among kindred spirits, and among company with a deep love and passion for the land we live on. There is not much more I could ask for in a bookstore.Looking forward to my next visit.
