The current bookstore industry has faced challenges ranging from increased popularity of digital media to the hardships of providing general retail. But many of us still have a favorite book, and enjoy the warm fuzzy feelings of walking into a local shop. In fact, over half of adults still have read a print book in the last year. (Statistics provided by Statistica)
It was a pleasant surprise to discover a local,
Tri State bookstore not far from Goodland in McCook, NE. With local book store owners few and far between, we dove in to unveil what hidden figure was providing literary delights to our side of the Midwest.
We sat down with Kelsey Brown, the owner of New Life Christian Bookstore.
She glowed in answering how she acquired the special store.
“New Life has been around a long time, but we took the plunge and bought the store from my parents in January 2023. They purchased it in 2019, knowing we were moving back to help run the store and eventually buy it. They have been such big supporters of my dreams and wanted to make sure the store would be available for us when the time was right. It has been so much fun getting to work alongside them through it all, too,” Brown stated.
Realizing it was not only a local business, but run by a family made the motive for wanting to open the store easier to unfold.
“There is just something so special about New Life. It’s always been a place I’ve felt extra close to God and that’s my hope for all who enter. I want to glorify God in all we do and help others see His goodness and faithfulness,” Brown stated.
When asked about their most popular products— books and laser engraving items were clearly the top sellers.
As Brown walked the store, she pondered her favorite memory.
“It’s so hard to pick a favorite memory, but I can say some of my most favorite moments at New Life have been with my family. My parents working here, my husband coming in to help, even our kids (6&8 years old) love to help and are part of the team. That was one of my visions for the store initially, to have us all here together, so it’s been amazing to see that come to life,” stated Brown.
Discovering the hidden figure dream of a bookstore owner might have readers dreaming of running one of their own. When asked what she would say to someone who is considering this unseen, but valuable career path Brown shared with great joy.
“It’s so special! There’s just something about having a book to read and hold in your hands. So many people love books and there are so many amazing books out there. It’s such a cool way to connect with people.”
As the bookstore filled with customers, she couldn’t help but share her favorite thing of living in the Tri-state area many call home,
“Definitely the people! We get to serve so many amazing people. And we know we wouldn’t get to be at New Life if it weren’t for God and the people.”
Consider shopping with them this Christmas season. They are a gracious bookstore that carries our latest devotional, Blooming Wisdom! Pick it up and Kelsey’s favorites today.
Take a picture with their Blooming Wisdom books at the store and send it to us for an entry to win a signed copy of our newest release, The Well coming in June 2024!
BONUS: Stay tuned for more media and an upcoming giveaway from Tri State Praise KGCR that include items from New Life Christian Bookstore! Follow their Facebook page and listen to their radio stations to learn more.
Simply Blooming Grace 