COMMUNITY
Noble when a woman came by with two teens, spotted a
NOOK computer tablet, and offered to buy it. “One of the
kids said, ‘No, this is a bookstore. I have an iPhone. I don’t
need another toy — I want a book.’”
Haggblom says that young people use electronics so much,
they need an escape. “More and more, they’re returning to
the printed word, so they can shut down all the noise.” And
although some people swear by electronic readers, numbers
are on the decline. According to the Association of American
Publishers, both hardback and paperback sales grew last
year, while e-book sales dropped about four percent. “People
like to have a book in their hands.”
Haggblom cites a study in which students with physical
textbooks retained knowledge better than those with electronic
texts. “You can’t blame schools for the trend to paperless
schools when they have to scrape for every penny, but
they’re pushing out kids without the same retention levels.”
Poetic Justice is like walking into someone’s personal
library or reading room, and in some ways, it is exactly that.
“It reminds me of old coffee shops,” says customer and author
Mary Dodge, enjoying the March open house in one of
the overstuffed chairs.
The store has regular events featuring authors, several of
whom came for the Chamber of Commerce’s ribbon-cutting.
“It’s fun to watch the authors,” says Haggblom. “Some talk
about writing or their book, but others share more life experiences,
more inspiration.”
Poetic Justice offers a variety of genres, gifts and art, and
Haggblom says the store is growing steadily. Whether looking
for new or used books to enjoy, Port St. Lucie book lovers, who
appreciate the value in buying local, can now buy both. E
Poetic Justice offers a variety of genres on its bookshelves and can always
order others. Local authors have, in some cases, turned to Haggblom for
self-publishing, enjoying the connection to the community with book readings
and signings scheduled regularly.
36 Port St. Lucie Magazine