“I wanted my next chapter, but I wanted it to be something that gave back to the community,” Kenney said. “Independent bookstores are a good way to do that.”
Kenney moved to The Woodlands in 2013 as a freelance writer for magazines throughout Texas. Owning a bookstore was something she had previously considered, but when a retail space opened up, she decided to try balancing it along her freelancing—which she said is only an issue when she is on deadline.
Village Books usually carries new books and does not focus on a specific genre, but Kenney said she noticed more people reading fantasy titles recently as opposed to contemporary fiction, which she attributed to a need for escapism during the COVID-19 pandemic. Kenney said one challenge was making sure the store’s offerings were in touch with what people want to read.
“What I like to read may not be what someone else likes to read,” Kenney said. “We’re learning the genres people in the community like, and that’s what we try and offer in the store.”
Connecting through events
In addition to books, Village Books offers community events such as discussions with authors and literary workshops. Local authors Kenney has worked with include Alda P. Dobbs and Marcus Bridgewater.
Kenney said she found many people are interested in buying their books through independent stores if possible rather than from large chains. Village Books also offers jewelry and other goods from local artisans, as Kenney prioritizes keeping a local touch to her products.
“People are aware of the general need to shop local, including independent bookstores,” Kenney said.
Although the bookstore location has been open for less than a year, Kenney said she was able to drum up interest through social media, selling online and opening a booth at local farmers markets before the store’s opening day. She said programming such as the Dobbs event has helped her continue to push the shop’s awareness to people, letting them know she is in town.
Her literary workshops have become regular features at the store, and they are now divided by age group. Kenney said she continues to plan events targeted for all ages.
“I want to be known as a true partner for the community, and the only way to do that is through programming and events,” Kenney said. “I’m only just getting started.”
Kenney said she believes as more people have moved into The Woodlands, they have kept up its feeling as a local community. Her favorite part of owning Village Books is meeting people she would not have otherwise met, she said.
“It could be the fact that people who understand [the importance of local business] come in here more often, but I do think this community is going on the right track,” Kenney said.
Village Books
9955 Woodlands Parkway, Ste. F, The Woodlands
281-771-8462
www.myvillagebooks.com
Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. noon-5 p.m.
