From Foraging to Foundations: Building a Community-Driven Used Bookstore in Rensselaer County

I’ve always been a lifelong avid reader. Since I was a kid, books have been my window to new worlds—a passion that has only grown with time. From devouring the epic tales of Dragonlance in the realm of fantasy to getting lost in the twists and turns of mystery and thrillers (Vince Flynn’s Mitch Rapp series is one of my all-time favorites) and even diving into insightful business reads, my love for the written word has shaped who I am. Today, I’m excited to share my vision for the future of Forage With Me Books, which goes far beyond the digital storefronts of eBay and Amazon.

While my online reselling business has been rewarding, I’m committed to reinvesting my proceeds into the company to make my dream a reality: owning a physical space in Rensselaer County, NY. Whether by purchasing an existing building or building a small, bespoke structure, my goal is to create a space that is much more than just a bookstore. I envision a vibrant community hub where books and local culture come together.

Imagine walking into a warm, inviting space filled with carefully curated used books—each with its own story waiting to be discovered. Beyond just selling books, I plan to transform this space into a true community center. Local authors will be invited to host book signings and engage in interactive storytime sessions. These events will not only celebrate the art of writing but also give emerging talent a platform to connect with readers.

In addition to a diverse collection of used books, I want to support local artisans by offering locally made food items, such as honey, cookies, and other treats. These products, lovingly crafted by community members, will add a layer of charm to the store, making it a destination where people can enjoy a snack while browsing or attending an event.

This physical store is an opportunity to give back to the community. Reading is fundamental—it opens doors to imagination, knowledge, and opportunity. While urban areas often have a wealth of resources dedicated to youth, many rural parts of our county still struggle with limited access to books and reading programs. We’re fortunate to have excellent local libraries, but I see an opportunity to bridge the gap by making books more accessible to our children.

As a parent of two young boys, I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible impact that a great book can have. Discovering series like Dogman, Captain Underpants, and Diary of a Wimpy Kid ignited their passion for reading. I hope that by creating a physical space where books are celebrated and made readily available—sometimes even offered for free—we can guide our kids away from endless screen time and towards a world of adventure, learning, and connection.

This vision isn’t just about business growth but also community building. Reinvesting my profits into Forage With Me Books will help fund this project, turning it into a reality that enriches lives. It’s about creating a haven where literature, local culture, and community spirit converge. Whether you’re a devoted reader, a local author, or someone who believes in the power of community, I invite you to join me on this journey.

Together, let’s create a space that nurtures creativity, sparks imagination, and reminds us all of the joy found in the simple act of reading a good book. Here’s to building a community—one story at a time..

Disclosure: Some of the links on this site are Amazon affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost. These commissions help support my business and my goal of building a community-driven bookstore. I only recommend books and products I truly believe in. Thanks for your support!