Note sull'episodio
In this episode of Woman Run, host Meredith Lowry interviews Beth Quarles, the owner of Paper Hearts Bookstore in Little Rock's Pettaway Square and a full-time elementary school teacher. They discuss how independent bookstores can go beyond selling books to actively cultivate and strengthen local community connections through creative events, partnerships, and shared experiences.
They explore unconventional book clubs that Paper Hearts hosts, including the Silent Book Club for introverts, the Read Between the Wines club hosted in partnership with local restaurants, and a Cookbook Club where members gather at Sterling Market for a potluck using recipes from a selected book.
Beth also highlights engaging events for all ages, such as Stuffed Animal Sleepovers for kids that feature local business visits and social media updates, and adult Reading Retreats held at a Victorian Airbnb in Hot Springs featuring poetry workshops led by Poet Laureate Kai Cogan.
Finally, the discussion covers initiatives to support local educators through classroom wishlists and professional development, alongside their Stage to Page partnership with Argenta Community Theater that blends play reading, live performances, and group discussions.
Paper Hearts Bookstore is located in Pettaway Square off Main Street in Little Rock, Arkansas, and can be found online at paperheartsbooks.com, on social media at @paperheartsbooks, or via email at hello@paperheartsbooks.com.