One of the hardest parts of living local for me has been “Amazon” withdrawal! And I have to admit that I have fallen off the local wagon a few times. Once because my local bookstore couldn’t get the book for me and the second time because time was of the essence and I just couldn’t wait for the item to get to the bookstore.
That said I do have to say that shopping at Market Block Books is a wonderful experience. Stanley the manager is a treat to deal with, very knowledgeable and efficient. It’s great to stop in and talk about books and I have to admit that he is very patient with me when I pull typical library patron behavior – I’m looking for a book, it has the word edibles in the title and celebrate or celebration. How embarrassing, that I was so unprepared, but he found the book I wanted and ordered it for me.
The bookstore is located in the historic Market Block Building.
As you can see it is located on the point of River and Third Street. Being on the point gives it lots of windows and the inside is bright yet cozy at the same time. It’s a really peaceful place to shop. I just like being inside the shop.
Now for the bad news. Parking in downtown Troy is not easy and they just installed meters. Additionally one book I ordered took almost a week to arrive compared to a two or three day turn around time on Amazon. And the cost – well my last purchase was $81 after receiving a $15 discount based on filling up my bookaholic card. I priced out the same purchase on Amazon $68. Yikes!
However I feel lucky that Troy has an independent bookseller in its midst and will continue to support them. They are very supportive of the public library and other community events and they deserve the support of the citizens of Troy. Plus I really like everyone who works there. I can’t promise that I won’t fall off the wagon now and again, but I’ll try to keep it to a minimum. One unexpected benefit – although they may cost me a bit more on individual purchases, having to actually go to the bookstore to make my purchases has cut down on most of my impulse book shopping!
I need to make a trip to Troy! I had no idea it was such a beautiful place with such a bustling downtown area! Makes Auburn look like a ghost town…wait, Auburn is a ghost town.
Great picture! Thanks for sharing!
The downtown area has some great historic buildings. Let me know – you’re welcomed anytime.