MANAYUNK

Blog post by Ali Angelo, Manayunk Development Corporation Summer intern

Ann Tetreault has an infinite passion for literature and always dreamed of creating a place where people could find a plethora of books that emphasize both literary fiction and local interests. The dream of having an authentic used bookstore became a reality on July 17, 2010 when Ann and her husband, Adam, opened The Spiral Bookcase at their current location at 112 Cotton St., one block down from Main St.  The Spiral Bookcase highlights the couple’s devoted interest in good reads and community service, as well as an eye toward books not readily available elsewhere. Five years later, they're still thriving!  This neighborhood independent bookstore carries a broad range of titles across many genres; including classics, children's, travel, cooking, spirituality, history, philosophy, and an exceptionally strong fiction section.

The Spiral Bookcase represents the dynamic relationship between Ann and Adam. “The spiral symbolizes both me and my husband," Ann said, adding that he takes the credit in coining the name, "He’s more scientific and analytical.  The Golden Mean is a spiral.” She then continued to describe her abstract metaphysical side, "I'm naturally a daydreamer with a whimsical twist, but ultimately the name comes from a combination of the both of us.”Ann added, “It’s about how we want to bring people together.  You know, a spiral bookcase is enveloping people and ideas.” She strives to pass on this enjoyment through the continuation of the spiral. 

Ann's spiritual and literary characteristics favor her special interest in topics off the beaten path. Her passion for literature truly lies in her curiosity for legends, mythologies, fantasies, folktales and overall "weird" themes. After acquiring an English degree from the University of Maryland , Ann continued her education at Western Kentucky University majoring in Folk Studies and Historic Preservation. While in pursuit of her studies, she developed a great appreciation for contemporary authors and reinvented folktales. As a result, Ann decided to dedicate an area of the shop to build an archival collection of American Folklore (traditional beliefs, customs, and stories of a community) and International Fairy Tales.                

For Ann, going from bookseller to business owner in the vibrant and quirky community she calls home came with a great deal of pride. After six years of selecting books for the Library of Congress, Ann wanted to use her better judgment for starting a unique collection of her own. With Adam as her right hand man, Ann also depends on her assistant manager, Brittany, who she says is a fantastic addition to the store. The bookstore cat, Amelia, even brightens up the store with her lively personality while customers browse through the vast assortment of books. Ann is also especially thrilled for one of her first booksellers, John, who recently started his own independent bookstore called Nine Stories in Pittsburgh. Additionally, Ann is thankful for her talented graphic designer, Jeremy, for helping to create The Spiral Bookcase's brand through posters, postcards, and bookmarks.

 The job has also afforded Ann a great deal of expertise in helping to match people with the books they are hoping to find. Her favorite part of the job is forging a genuine connection with her customers so that she can help them find a part of themselves in The Spiral Bookcase, and of course take it home with them. "The best part about this unique business is that there's no need to compromise," Ann said, "We just put out the books we love and see how it fits." The Spiral Bookcase treats its readers to great customer and community service with a cozy, friendly atmosphere for browsing. If you can't find what you're looking for on the shelves, Ann will specially order any book for you.


The bookstore also hosts in-shop events (topping out at 35 people standing room only) and bigger local events in the nearby Pretzel Park (4300 Silverwood Ave.)  They are always looking to coordinate with authors, publisher, other business owners and organizations to sell books at venues all over the city.  Some of their favorite venues to sell at have been World Cafe Live, Chris’s Jazz Cafe, Helium Comedy Club, the 215 Festival, and Tattooed Mom’s, selling books to 15 to 300 people at any given event.  Coming up Ann is looking forward to be the designated bookseller for Annie Liontas’s Book Release Party for her debut novel “Let Me Explain You” at L’Etage on July 17th.  
 
At The Spiral Bookcase, you will find yourself immersed in the wonderful, unique scent of accomplished books, creaky hardwood floors and a journey that dates back through classic literature. The Spiral Bookcase highlights the kind of place where you might roam for hours, scouring the shelves and scouting the stacks. Today, this community-oriented bookstore represents a place in which authors and readers come together for book signings, discussions, and other events for book lovers. By building relationships with businesses, organizations, and individuals in the community, Ann hopes to strengthen Manayunk’s literary culture and overall quality of life. “From my youth and growing up, I always pictured the bookstore as the cornerstone for any vibrant Main Street community,” Ann said. “And I like to think that we do have a hand in that.”
 
 
If you're thrilled by the prospect of discovering obscure out-of-prints, rare editions and favorite second-hand paperbacks, or you're just a book-lover that likes the idea of buying publications locally, we hope you'll visit The Spiral Bookcase and discover a new great reading experience!

Celebrate five years of business with The Spiral Bookcase and enjoy in-store promotions for the entire weekend starting July 17th!  Ann will also be hosting a party on July 18th, from 6pm-9pm,  and invites everyone to join the fun. This event is also BYOB! For more information visit The Spiral Bookcase Facebook page or website. We'll see you there, but spread the word quickly!