COMMUNITY
Owner Mary Loper rings up a sale for Hilkene, who said he would bring the book back for a
$2 store credit once he finishes reading it.
THE BOOK EXCHANGE
8719 South U.S. 1, Port St. Lucie | 772.878.9101
Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday
https://www.facebook.com/The-Book-Exchange-194587377232946
Servicing the Treasure Coast
Club Car Authorized Dealer
1140 S. US Hwy #1 | Vero Beach
772.778.0468 | www.totalgolfcart.com
Port St. Lucie Magazine 33
Loper always loved reading; when she
decided to open a business, books were a
natural fit. “I landed here,” she says. “I have
regulars who come in every week, snowbirds
who come down every season. It’s a labor of
love. I love my shop, and my customers are
like family.” And as with any family, there are
sad moments, too. “Someone recently let me
know one of my regulars passed away — it
breaks your heart.”
Loper would like to have a larger store, but
she’s staying put. Space constraints mean she
must be discriminating, even picky, with acquisitions.
“Especially with hardbacks — most
people are looking for paperbacks.” People
donate books or bring books in for store credit.
When there is a surplus, Loper gives books to
Vietnam veterans’ groups or to the jail.
“We’re fully computerized,” says Loper,
“which customers find very helpful. We know
what’s here and keep track of what customers
have already read.” Occasionally, someone
will order a new book to finish a series, but
Loper prefers sticking to used books; she will
search for particular authors or titles if requested.
The store also sells used audiobooks
and puzzles.
RETAIL IDEA
On a smaller scale, thrift stores are another
source for used books, but while some >>
EXPE R IENCE THE AL L-NEW
AUTHORIZED DEAL ER
CARPOOL
NEVER
LOOKED
SO COOL
Getting ready for fall sports isn’t just for the kids – you’ll be dropping off and
picking up from all of their after-school activities, so why not do it with a new
Onward® by Club Car®! Personalize it to meet all of your needs with premium
seats, integrated storage, stylish wheels, tires, and more, all while having peace of
mind knowing Onward is built to meet or exceed strict quality standards.
Get to know Onward®: A personal transportation vehicle with style, comfort,
reliability, and built-in options that make driving to and from sports and afterschool
activities fun again!
www.clubcar .com
/www.totalgolfcart.com
/The-Book-Exchange-194587377232946
/www.totalgolfcart.com
/www.clubcar