'More Than Just A Coffee Shop': New Lenox's Indie 'Grounded Books' Blends 2 Women's Passions

NEW LENOX, IL — Two women's affinities for coffee and books have now fueled a new business venture.

Grounded New Lenox owner Rachael Giantomasso and employee Lexy Bouziotis noticed the open space next to Grounded Coffee Bar in New Lenox, and easily envisioned its future: a bookshop.

"The owner and I always bonded over coffee and books—it had been an idea since we expanded in Frankfort," said Bouziotis, manager of recently opened Grounded Books. "Once those units were available, we took the opportunity to make it bigger and better, to incorporate both of our loves of coffees and books."

The bookshop, 2131 Calistoga Dr., is an extension of the coffee bar next door (2111 Calistoga Dr.) that opened in April 2024. The newly expanded space features extra seating, and an event space that leads into the bookshop. The decor and furniture in the shop is inspired by Giantomasso's vision. The shop features "comfortable nooks and inviting shelves stocked with a thoughtfully curated selection of independent literature."

"A lot of the fixtures are custom-built," Bouziotis said. "A unique space that has been customized from the owner’s taste.

"It flows. It’s different, but it still flows together."

The shop sells all new books of different genres, with a focus on romance, fantasy, young adult, and mystery/thriller. Giantomasso and Bouziotis both pick romantasy—or blend of romance and fantasy, where both elements are equally important to the story—as their favorite genre, as available at the shop. They also plan to offer curated book boxes tailored to different interests and themes.

They plan to host author signings, midnight release parties and book club gatherings. The two women found that book clubs had found homes at their coffee bars at both the New Lenox and Frankfort locations. You can check out their book club schedule online.

"We’ve been building this community with book clubs over the last couple of years," Bouziotis said, "and just wanted to expand it to include other book lovers.

"We just wanted to create a third space for people to feel welcome."

The shop also features candles, book merch like tote bags, T-shirts, and E-reader accessories. Vinyl records are also available, and customers can enjoy table-top games while they sip their Grounded beverage of choice.

"Imagine browsing captivating stories and discovering new authors, all while savoring the aroma of freshly brewed espresso and your go-to Grounded latte," the website reads.

Owner Rachael Giantomasso said she's excited to see people enjoy this next chapter for Grounded. A full schedule of events is available on the shop's website.

"We're so excited to bring this new concept to New Lenox," said Giantomasso. "We've always envisioned Grounded as more than just a coffee shop—it's a place for people to connect, relax, and find a little inspiration. Adding an indie bookstore feels like a natural extension of that vision."

Hours for Grounded Books are:

• Monday–Thursday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Friday-Saturday: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.