Wow, can you believe we're turning 30?? We honestly don't feel a day over 29. But it's true! Thanks abound for the solid foundation laid by Roberta Dyer and Gloria Borg Olds in the spring of 1992, and to all of the authors, publishers, landlords, wonderful employees, and—especially—you, dear readers and book buyers, the loyal customers who have helped us to keep the lights on for three decades. Thanks to all of you we are still here serving the Portland literary community and our beloved northeast Portland neighborhood.
The little bookstore that could, we have chugged along through the Big Box Bookstore invasion and the onslaught of the billionaire online megastore guy, recessions and political upheavals, ice storms and power outages, an international pandemic and global supply chain disruptions, and irritating and senseless vandalism. We have survived all of this thanks to you.
Paul Yamazaki of City Lights Books in San Francisco said that a bookstore is somewhat like the ocean: it may look the same, but if you are a careful observer it is always changing. At first glance, we haven't changed that much from the very special store Roberta and Gloria opened 30 years ago. But on closer inspection we have evolved with the times, striving to stay relevant and current while continuing to provide a most carefully curated inventory of books and sidelines for you to explore, with friendly, well-read booksellers at your service. We treasure our connection with our community and hope the feeling is mutual.
Please let us express our thanks to you and to celebrate this moment together on Saturday, May 14th. We will be offering a special sale for our celebration, online and in the store: all books will be 20% off! If you come into our store that day wearing a Broadway Books t-shirt or hoodie, we will give you 25% off your books! [Online use the code BBTurns30 to get the 20% discount on book purchases.]
We are also thrilled to announce the launch of the first ever Broadway Books jigsaw puzzle! This is a 672-piece puzzle for only $20. The graphic is the same as the party invitation above, a watercolor of our storefront by local artist Paula Wade. What a lovely keepsake and gift this puzzle will make. And be sure to check out the new Broadway Books stickers ($2.50), and pick up a complimentary BB pen too!
If you spend $150 or more in the store on party day we will give you a free oh-so-lovely Broadway Books 30th anniversary tote bag (otherwise $15). We will also be having a special contest/drawing to win a $100 gift certificate and BB t-shirt or hoodie.
From 11 to 3 we will have a photo booth in the store so you can take photos with your favorite book or peeps or just of yourself to remember the day. And as you head out the door, we will send you off with a yummy celebratory cupcake. We are still requiring masks in the store in the hope of keeping everyone healthy.
We hope to see you next Saturday. Until then, happy reading!