We had the good fortune of connecting with Barbra Huntting Deirdre Appelhans and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Barbra Huntting, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Barbra, a former restaurant owner, and Deirdre, a healthcare research director, were ready for change in 2019. Deirdre discovered the Book Cellar in Louisville was closing due to a building sale. Initially, Barbra was just accompanying Deirdre to explore properties. When they found the current building in the Old Lumberyards, Barbra felt the space needed a cafe, thus igniting their partnership. Their shared dreams of creating a warm and inclusive space led to the birth of their venture. Most of all, they wanted to make it a welcoming space – a’Third Space” – a warm, inclusive place for gathering, interacting, and fostering a sense of belonging: “Where everybody knows your name”

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
In October 2019, the historic building was remodeled from crowded, ugly offfices into an open-plan bookstore with handmade red bookshelves. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, the remodel was completed in 2020 and when the city allowed businesses to open with limited capacity, the bookstore quietly unlocked the doors on June 20th. They credit a lot of their success to the ‘can do’ spirit nurtured during the pandemic shutdown.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Lafayette is home to many unique and independent businesses. Our favorites include the Lafayette Flea Market, where you can find hidden treasures, Tip Top Savory Pies, known for their delicious handmade pies, and the new speakeasy called Foxglove, offering an exciting, secretive experience. Each spot brings its own charm to the community, making Lafayette a great place to explore and support local businesses.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Deirdre: Thanks to Martha Beck’s book, ‘Steering by Starlight’, I found solutions to common problems and was inspired to open a community bookstore café. It’s now a welcoming and supportive space for everyone.

Barbra: Leslie Wing-Pomeroy, who used to own East Simpson Coffee, showed me how we can connect with our community, not just by running a business, but by being involved and taking part in local activities. This means being more than just shop owners and becoming true members of the community.

Website: https://thereadqueen.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thereadqueenbookstore/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theReadQueenBookstore

Image Credits
image credits The RQ Bookstore

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