A new chapter for the Kennett community has begun with the opening of Forage Books, a bookstore that aims to enhance local connections. Located at 121 West State Street, the store officially opened its doors on February 14, 2024, and the response was overwhelming. A crowd gathered, causing a line that extended down the street, with eager patrons waiting over two hours to browse the selection of books.
Tamlyn Ancone, the owner of Forage Books, expressed her excitement about becoming part of the community. “I am looking forward to integrating with the Kennett area by providing another town business and a third place to meet,” she said. Ancone emphasized that the store’s name, Forage, symbolizes exploration and discovery, inviting readers to find books that inspire imagination and learning. The name also resonates with the town’s agricultural roots.
To foster community engagement, the bookstore features a dedicated section called “Kennett Square Neighbor Picks,” showcasing titles recommended by local residents. Each month, Ancone will gather suggestions through a survey on the store’s website and highlight ten featured picks.
Reading has always been a passion for Ancone, who believes it fosters empathy and understanding. She particularly enjoys fiction, stating, “Fiction is a subtle way to bring out personal experiences that evoke understanding of diversity and uniqueness.”
In a collaborative spirit, Ancone has already reached out to the local library, aiming to partner rather than compete. “We share the same goal—fostering literacy,” she noted. Her conversations with library staff have been positive, and she looks forward to exploring ways to support each other’s missions, both crucial for the Kennett Square community.
Throughout February, Forage Books is celebrating Black History Month with a special section of relevant literature. Ancone is also committed to inclusivity, featuring a collection of Spanish-language books. She is currently seeking a native Spanish speaker to ensure that the translations meet the needs of local Spanish-speaking residents.
The bookstore also offers a vibrant selection of children’s books, providing a cozy environment for parents and children to explore together. Ancone is enthusiastic about potential collaborations with community organizations like The Pop-Up Free Library, which could further extend her outreach.
In addition to books, Forage Books showcases products from local artisans, including candles, ceramic mugs, greeting cards, and bookmarks. These items add a personal touch, making the bookstore a perfect destination for gift-giving.
Looking ahead, Ancone envisions developing the second floor of the store into a versatile community space for gatherings such as book clubs and game nights. This area will require renovations, including heating and air conditioning installations, but her commitment to building a community hub remains strong.
Ancone’s ties to the area run deep. Her husband grew up in Unionville, and their son attends school in Kennett Square. She feels a strong connection to the community and is eager to contribute to its vibrancy.
To support Forage Books beyond in-person visits, readers can designate the store as their local bookstore on platforms like Bookshop.org and Libro.fm. This allows a portion of online purchases to benefit the store while promoting independent bookstores.
For updates and more information, interested individuals can follow Forage Books on Facebook and Instagram or visit their website at www.foragebooksksq.com.
The community’s involvement is vital as Forage Books aims to ignite a renewed spirit of connection and creativity in Kennett. Ancone believes that by sharing her dream with the town, they can shape a brighter future together.
