Cranford Begins New Chapter, Welcomes Only Independent Bookstore Downtown

CRANFORD, NJ — The township's lone independent bookstore opened its doors in early September.

The Cranford Bookstore, located at 1 East South Ave., offers a collection of works for all ages that is curated by owners Kate Lydon and Lauren King, both Cranford residents. Using feedback from the local community, bestseller lists, and their own love for literature, the team says they want to offer a little of everything.

"We want to make sure we carry what the community wants," King told Downtown Cranford. "I'm always asking people what they're reading, and those conversations are what I'm most looking forward to." They don't want to just be your traditional neighborhood store, however. The women already have plans to host book clubs, book speed dating nights, and to partner with local schools on ways to advance literacy in the Cranford area.

Customers buying more than five items for a book club even get a custom cocktail recipe that goes with the theme of the work, along with an added 10 percent quantity discount.

"Cranford Bookstore offers a personal touch that you won't find on Amazon," King adds. Their new downtown space also incorporates design recommendations from both local businesses and artists. Much of the decor in the store is repurposed to enhance the home-like comfort in the air.

Kate, with her work as one of the founders of the Asbury Park Book Cooperative, together with Lauren, a former English teacher, say their vision "was created from a love of books and community, as well as a desire to provide a space for our neighbors to gather, connect and read."

The Cranford Bookstore is open from Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The store can be reached by calling 908-441-7930 or emailing hello@thecranfordbookstore.com.

MORE FROM PATCH: Cranford Approves New Safety Units For Pedestrians