About Books Inc

THANKS!

2010-12-24T05:44:00.000-08:00

Today, December 24 and Friday, December 31 are the last days About Books will be open. Hours are 11-4. I am retiring and closing the store. Thanks to everyone who shopped at About Books in the past 5 1/2 years I was owner and before then when Steve & Carol owned the store. It is always fun to chat with customers and hear your take on the latest books & news of the day.

Have a safe & happy holiday season!

Connie's Last Day Working at the Store

2010-11-26T10:57:00.000-08:00

This is my last day working at About Books Inc.

Jon will be here tomorrow, Sat. November 27 from 10:30-4, and throughout December.

Winter hours are in effect starting next weekend:

Friday & Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. - closed on Christmas & New Year's days, of course.

Last day of business will be December 31, 2010

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Thanks for all your support for About Books, It has been fun!

Irving Teachers Pick the Bookstore

2010-11-19T14:24:00.001-08:00

2010-11-18T10:35:00.000-08:00

HUGE SALE CONTINUES!

ABOUT BOOKS INC.
221 E. Front St.
Bloomington, IL

75% OFF
books & ephemera

Please, bring your own bag, box, bin
Cash or check preferred

BACK ROOM/BASEMENT
$2 HARDBACK - $1 PAPERBACK

Tues.-Fri. 10:30-5:30, Sat. 10:30-4
Through November 27

Friday & Saturday 11-4 during December

2010-11-03T13:44:00.000-07:00

SALE CONTINUES!

About Books Inc.
221 E. Front St.
Bloomington, IL

50% off all books & ephemera
+ 4% off cash or check purchases
+1% off for using your own bag, box, bin

Basement & Back Room 'Really Specials'
$2 hardbacks, $1 paperbacks
no additional discounts on these items

Wooden Fruit Crates - $2 each

REGULAR HOURS STILL IN EFFECT:
Tuesday - Friday 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Saturday 10:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
closed Sunday & Monday

2010-10-27T12:19:00.000-07:00

RETIREMENT SALE!

ABOUT BOOKS INC.
221 E. Front St.
Bloomington, IL

50% OFF
+ 4% off cash or check Purchases
+1% off for your own bag, box, bin

BACK ROOM & BASEMENT SALE PRICED AT
$2 HARDBACK & $1 PAPERBACK
(no additional discount on back room or basement items)

Tues.-Fri. 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Sat. 10:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

2010-10-19T09:35:00.000-07:00

RETIREMENT SALE! RETIREMENT SALE! RETIREMENT SALE!

Starting October 20

30% OFF ALL BOOKS & EPHEMERA

+ 4% off cash or check purchases
+1% off if you use your own bag, box or bin

About Books Inc.
221 E. Front St.
Bloomington, IL 61701

Tues.-Fri. 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Sat. 10:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

New Arrivals!

2010-08-10T10:32:00.000-07:00

A new batch of books I bought today included three Raggedy Ann books,

a Wizard of Oz book (which is sold),

The Dinky Ducklings,

and two fabulous fold-out, pop-up books. I am not sure all the fabulous 3D-ness of these books shows up in the pictures, but they are pretty wonderful.

These are fun books to have & should sell fast (I hope)!

I made the mistake of mentioning I had some extra cash this month and that seems to have brought all the 'sellers' out of the woodwork!

Keep Reading!

About Books Inc
221 E. Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701

309-829-3999

aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com

www.aboutbooksbloomington.com

10:30-5:30, Tuesday-Friday
10:30-4, Saturday
Closed sunday & Monday

AUTHOR SIGNING, JULY 17, 1:00 P.M.

2010-07-14T09:20:00.000-07:00

Celebrating Introversion: Unwrapping Your True Presence

By Tonia Collins, Ph.D.

"In Celebrating Introversion", author Tonia Collins informs readers and dispels myths about introverted personalities. In her clear, conversational style, she shows that introversion is not a disease to be cured or a weakness to be overcome. Instead, it is a trait to be celebrated with strengths of its own. Readers will learn what makes introverted personalities unique, how to harness the strengths of introversion, and how to enjoy and support introverted family or friends. Filled with examples from Tonia's own experiences, Celebrating Introversion identifies with the struggles of introverts and explains essential skills, such as:

• How to thrive in an extrovert's world

• How to find a job that fits

• How to discover means for better communication

• And much more"

Come to About Books Inc. on Saturday, July 17, 2010 for a book signing.

ABOUT BOOKS INC
221 E. FRONT ST.
BLOOMINGTON, IL 61701
309-829-3999
aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com
aboutbooksbloomington.com

TUESDAY - FRIDAY 10:30-5:30
SATURDAY 10:30-4
(I OPEN EARLIER ON SATURDAYS DURING FARMERS MARKET SEASON)

FOUND, NOW SOLD!

2010-06-26T15:04:00.000-07:00

I posted the information on this book in my blog back in May and had a lot of fun with this beautiful book. The last thing I did as I was closing the store today was check my email for last minute on-line orders. This is the book that sold. I am so glad it has found a home and hope the new owner enjoys it!

I found this book in my back room last week. It is full leather and beautiful except for the fact it has a detached front cover and spine backing. The page edges are gilt and the back has a blind stamped design. Quite a fun book. I found this article interesting:

I am continuing to 'shop' the back room and find some interesting books almost daily. I was so busy today that I didn't move anything from the back, but I got a bunch of books inventoried from some in-store trade deals I made.

Don't forget that I am open early on Saturdays during Farmers Market season. I am usually here by 9:00 a.m. I also offer a discount on Saturdays if customers mention Farmers Market. Be sure to stop in while you are downtown!

My store-front windows have been updated - I have books relating to Japan in one window and some books that I find interesting or pretty in the other. Enjoy the displays when you are walking by.

Keep Reading!

About Books Inc.
221 E. Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-829-3999

email: aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com
web page: aboutbooksbloomington.com

Regular Store Hours:
Tuesday - Friday, 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Saturday, 10:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR EARLY HOURS DURING FARMERS MARKET

*CLOSED Sunday & Monday

INTERESTING FIND!

2010-05-11T11:57:00.000-07:00

I found this book in my back room last week. It is full leather and beautiful except for the fact it has a detached front cover and spine backing. The page edges are gilt and the back has a blind stamped design. Quite a fun book. I found this article interesting:

What should be avoided when calling
Do not stare around the room.
Do not take a dog or small child.
Do not linger at dinner-hour.
Do not lay aside the bonnet at a formal call.
Do not fidget with your cane, hat or parasol.
Do not make a call of ceremony on a wet day.
Do not turn your back to one seated near yo...u.
Do not touch the piano unless invited to do so.
Do not handle ornaments or furniture in the room.
Do not make a display of consulting your watch.
Do not remove the gloves when making a formal call.
Do not introduce politics, religion, or weighty topics for conversation when making calls.
Do not tattle. Do not speak ill of your neighbors. Do not carry gossip from one family to another.

The list just goes on and on!

These are some items tucked into the page of the book - an article about Lincoln's lost grandmother and an advertising card. I laid the news article on a book I was soaking a sticker from so it absorbed the goo - too bad for me, but it is still readable.

The store is still for sale! Call, email or stop in if you are interested.

In the meantime, keep reading!

About Books Inc.
221 E. Front St.
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-829-3999
aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com
www.aboutbooksbloomington.com

Regular Store Hours:
Tuesday - Friday, 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Saturday, 10:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR EARLY HOURS DURING FARMERS MARKET

*CLOSED Sunday & Monday

OPEN EARLY DURING FARMERS MARKET

2010-04-29T09:50:00.000-07:00

About Books will be open early on Saturdays during downtown Bloomington's Farmers Market - starting in May.

I have been adding new inventory this past month - new from the storage area in the back room! I have also gotten in new cookbooks recently - all inventoried and ready to help with your meal plans and entertaining. I also have a selection of grilling and barbecue books if you are looking for new outdoor cooking ideas.

The store is still for sale! Call, email or stop in if you are interested.

In the meantime, keep reading!

About Books Inc.
221 E. Front St.
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-829-3999
aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com
www.aboutbooksbloomington.com

Regular Store Hours:
Tuesday - Friday, 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Saturday, 10:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR EARLY HOURS DURING FARMERS MARKET

*CLOSED Sunday & Monday

Welcome, Spring!

2010-03-31T09:01:00.000-07:00

I am back from the winter in Texas. If I had to choose a season to repeat in a single year it would be spring! We had a lovely spring before we left Texas - the bluebonnets are gorgeous this year - and now I am seeing flowers starting to pop here in Bloomington-Normal.

Regular store hours at About Books Inc. will resume on April 1. I am open March 31 until 4 p.m.

The store is still for sale! Call, email or stop in if you are interested.

In the meantime, keep reading!

About Books Inc.
221 E. Front St.
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-829-3999
aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com
www.aboutbooksbloomington.com

Regular Store Hours:
Tuesday - Friday, 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Saturday, 10:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Sunday & Monday, closed

2009-11-06T08:52:00.000-08:00

From The Pantagraph, Friday, November 6, 2009 7:05 am
_______________________________________________________

Hudson Library Recalls Elbert Hubbard Ahead of PBS Documentary

HUDSON -- The Hudson Area Public Library will host a program Nov. 14 about Elbert Hubbard, founder of the influential arts community known as the Roycroft Campus, as a prelude to a PBS documentary about Hubbard airing later this month.

The library program, "Elbert Hubbard and Hudson History," is from 10 to 11 a.m. The PBS program, "Elbert Hubbard: An American Original," airs Nov. 23 on WTVP and WILL.

Hubbard was a philosopher, writer and founder, in 1895, of the Roycroft Shops in East Aurora, N.Y., a reformist community of craft workers, artists, furniture makers and others who formed part of the Arts and Crafts movement that had a strong influence on the development of American architecture and design in the early 20th century. The Roycroft Campus remains active today.

A prolific writer, Hubbard's most famous essay was "Message to Garcia," which became required reading in classrooms across America after it was published in 1899.

Hubbard lived in Bloomington for a year, then moved to Hudson, where he grew up. He lived there until he became a soap salesman at age 15. He moved to Buffalo, N.Y., where he later became secretary-treasurer for the J.D. Larkin Co., a furniture maker. He and his wife, noted suffragette Alice Moore Hubbard, died when the Lusitania sank in 1915. His house, at Broadway and Walnut in Hudson, is on the National Register of Historic Places.

The library display, in the Hudson History Room, will feature several Hubbard items, including a letter, Roycroft and Larkin items, and medical tools and medicines from the 1850s that Hubbard's father, Dr. Silas Hubbard, used in his practice.

The program also will include several presentations: "Elbert's Family and His Childhood" by Sue Keeran; "Elbert's Larkin Years" by Judith Lampert; and "Establishment of the Roycrofters" by Douglas Jennings.

_______________________________________________________

About Books Inc. has many Elbert Hubbard volumes. Pictured are some of the items I have on display in the front window. I am working this weekend to make sure all are inventoried so they will be available online as well as in the store. Please stop by to see what is available or go to the website: www.aboutbooksbloomington.com and do an author search (Hubbard, Elbert).

_______________________________________________________

I will be heading south for the winter again this year. I plan to be here through November. Jon will hold down the fort again while I am gone. Clare got married this October and will be leaving Bloomington when she is done with school in early December.

_______________________________________________________

Hours will be seasonally adjusted again during the winter months.

NOVEMBER: Tues. - Fri. 10:30-5:30; Sat. 10:30-4
DECEMBER: Tues. - Sat. 11:00-4:00
JANUARY-MARCH: Fri. & Sat., 11:00-4:00
_______________________________________________________

KEEP READING!

About Books Inc
221 E. Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-829-3999
www.aboutbooksbloomington.com
aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com

2009-10-07T12:44:00.000-07:00

Interesting Ephemera!

It reads, in part:

Elect Eisenhower and Bring Our Boys Home from Korea!

Truman and Acheson sent them there,
Stevenson and Acheson want to keep them there,
Eisenhower wants to bring them home.

A Vote for Eisenhower is a Vote for Peace

Don't Let Eisenhower Down
Vote Republican on Tuesday, Nov. 4 (1952)

It is fun to find interesting pieces like this in old books! And, I guess some things never change - always an election, always a war.

Keep reading - maybe you'll find something interesting as well!

Connie
About Books Inc
221 E. Front St.
Bloomington, IL 61701

309-829-3999

www.aboutbooksbloomington.com

aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com

What feels like fall . . .

2009-08-28T10:30:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of our latest family member, Emily Marie, born July 16, with her big sister, Rachel.

Wow - what a weird summer we have had. It is the end of August and feels more like September or October. Rain and only a few really hot days (for that I am grateful) have been our norm for this summer. June and July were great months at the bookstore - August is coming up strong also.

Just a reminder that I am selling the store. Any interested parties please contact me. It is very reasonably priced and does not include buying the building - my space is rented.

I am also looking for someone to help out through the winter months, December through at least February, maybe even March. Clare, who has been an able assistant will be leaving when she graduates in early December. Jon will still be here, but I feel better with two bodies filling out the work hours. Again, just contact me if you are interested.

Keep Reading!

Connie
About Books Inc
221 E. Front St.
Bloomington, IL 61704
www.aboutbooksbloomington.com
aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com
309-829-3999

About Books Inc - FOR SALE!

2009-06-17T09:05:00.000-07:00

With the birth of our second grandchild in Texas and the fact that they will be staying in San Antonio and the other faction of our family is staying in New York - I feel I need to sell my wonderful bookstore. Our vacations are trips to see the kids, which is great, but I also want to take some trips to see parts of the country I have yet to visit.

I have worked at About Books for 11 years and owned it for four years. The time has come for someone else to take over the reigns.

If you are interested, give me a call or drop me an email!

Enjoy the summer and keep reading!

About Books Inc.
221 E.Front St.
Bloomington, IL 61701

309-829-3999

aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com

Tuesday - Friday, 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Saturday 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Closed Sunday and Monday

SPRING!!!

2009-03-31T08:33:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Spring in Central Illinois - one day 70 degrees, another 50; one day sunshine, another rain, then 17degree wind chill and 4" of SNOW! Yuck!

Anyway, here is a cute blog that is fun to look at. My adult children were called upon by the second-grade daughter of one of their cousins to give 'Flat Stanley' a tour in their cities. Here are Stanley's adventures with Scott in San Antonio and Sarah in New York City - enjoy!

http://www.namelal.com/flatstanley/

Keep Reading
Connie
About Books Inc.

WELCOME, SPRING!

2009-03-20T12:44:00.000-07:00

We are back from our winter sojourn in San Antonio. The weather was great, the family was great, but I did miss the bookstore. Stop in and say hello when you are in downtown Bloomington. I am working hard at getting new books on the shelves and making the store feel like 'home' again.

See You Soon!
Connie

About Books Inc
221 E. Front St.
Bloomington, IL 61701

309-829-3999

aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com

Happy New Year . . .

2009-01-02T13:07:00.002-08:00

from mostly warm and sunny Texas.

We have made it through our first month of no snow and ice and have greatly enjoyed it! The day after we left Illinois winter started up there with a vengeance. While we enjoyed moderate to warm sunny days Central Illinois was getting hit with frigid temperatures, snow, ice, more snow, then winter storms, then rain and freezing rain . . you get the picture. Needless to say we made the right weather decision for us!

We have spent lots of time with our son and his family - it is hard to beat Christmas with an extremely vocal 2 1/2-year-old! What a blast. Right now she is sleeping on the couch while we wait for UPS to deliver Gampa Wick's "MAJOR PRIZE". Yes, Rick won a laptop from some contest he entered - we are thrilled since ours is 5 years old and considered (by people who know) to be a dinosaur.

Anyway - the bookstore is still up and running thanks to Jon and Clare. They seem to have things well in hand and I have sent them only one box of books - so far. I found Second Hand Books - two of the four San Antonio locations. I'll have to get out and do some more buying again soon. I like to keep my thumb in the pie.

Remember Winter Hours are:
Tuesday - Friday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Closed Sunday and Monday

About Books Inc.
221 E. Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701

309-829-3999
www.aboutbooksbloomington.com
aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com

KEEP READING!

Happy New Year . . .

2009-01-02T13:07:00.000-08:00

from mostly warm and sunny Texas.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-25T14:52:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone enjoys the Thanksgiving Holiday!

I am going to be celebrating winter in Texas this year. We are leaving Saturday, November 29.

Jon will continue to be the guy who works when I am gone. I have also hired Clare - she will be in an hour or so most days and all day on Fridays when she can.

While I am gone, store hours will change a little:

WINTER HOURS AT ABOUT BOOKS INC:
Tuesday through Friday - 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Saturday - 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Closed Sunday and Monday

Enjoy your winter in Illinois or wherever you will be. Have a great Christmas and I'll see you all again when the flowers are ready to bloom!

Keep reading!

About Books Inc.
221 E. Front St.
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-829-3999
www.aboutbooksbloomington.com
aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com

Tuesday - Friday, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Closed Sunday and Monday

VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE

2008-11-04T09:22:00.000-08:00

VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE

VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE

VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE

VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE

From a Sunday Morning Walk

2008-10-19T08:01:00.000-07:00

As I walked in a nearby neighborhood this morning I saw a Barack Obama sign in one yard and a Mitt Romney sign across the street. I was reminded, once again, of the political bumper sticker I have:

Don't Blame Me, I Voted for McGovern!

Enjoy the political process and be sure to vote!

BOOK SIGNING

2008-10-16T08:56:00.000-07:00

Mystery writer Kate Charles returns to her hometown for a book signing on Saturday, October 18, from 2-3:30 p.m. at About Books Inc., 221 E. Front Street, Bloomington. The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.

Charles (Carol Fosher) graduated from Bloomington High School and Illinois State University but has lived in England for more than 20 years. She is best known for her clerical murder mysteries set in the Church of England. Charles is a former Chairman of the Crime Writer's Association.

For more information about Kate Charles, visit her official website:
http://www.katecharles.com

About Books Inc.
221 E. Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701
phone: 309-829-3999

email: aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com
web address: www.aboutbooksbloomington.com
blog: http://aboutbooksinc.blogspot.com

DOLLS VISIT ABOUT BOOKS

2008-10-09T15:06:00.000-07:00

My interesting moment of the day: A couple came in with their Asian Ball-Jointed dolls this evening. They are really fascinating dolls - I had never seen this kind before. They are, as named, ball-jointed, and they are anatomically correct. One other customer was in at the time and we were both fascinated with the dolls. He took as many pictures as I did!

Keep Reading!

Book Signing

2008-10-07T09:40:00.000-07:00

Kate Charles will be coming to About Books on Saturday, October 18 at 2:00 p.m. Bring your books for Ms. Charles to sign or buy one from her at the store. She grew up in Bloomington, went to ISU and currently lives in England. More will follow as we finalize details.

About Books Inc is also taking part in ISU Homecoming 'Redbird Walk' October 14-18 with a 15% off all purchases.

I also give a 15% discount, at all times, on purchases from the BroMenn Spirit of Women members, Corn Belt Co-Op members, U-Click and Save members, with proof of membership.

If you have any upcoming events you would like publicized, please bring posters to me - I have two huge windows and would be happy to hang posters for your event.

I am currently taking new books for in-store trade only - no cash for books until further notice.

About Books Inc
221 E. Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701

www.aboutbooksbloomington.com

309-829-3999

Tues.-Fri. 10:30-5:30; Sat. 10:30-4; closed Sunday & Monday

KEEP READING!

August in Chicago!

2008-08-20T11:01:00.001-07:00

We just spent two great days in Chicago. What a beautiful city! I love visiting Chicago and forget between visits how beautiful it is, especially in the summer! This is just three of the hundreds of planters on Michigan Avenue - the whole city looks like this and the parks are gorgeous! We had lovely weather and went on an architectural cruise on the river and on Tuesday we went to our favorite place in the city - Wrigley Field!

The first building lets you see just how beautiful the day was, twice - good reflections, huh! The center building is the new Trump building - it is really reflective and shiny and fits into the architecture of the city very nicely.
I just like all the patterns in the last picture - very cool!

The first picture is from the Wrigley Field Press Box - yes, the press box. The next two are from the Cubs Dugoout - yes, the dugout! The next is the Cubs on-deck circle - yes, the on-deck circle!

Drum Roll, Please - This is my foot on Wrigley Field Grass - YES, the grass!!!!

We had a wonderful time in the city, which is obvious, but the reason we went up in the first place was our son-in-law, Britton. He was in town for a conference so we took advantage and went up to see him. We had a few drinks and then we ate at Heaven on Seven on Rush - great restaurant, we all highly recommend it. We all loved the red beans and rice, for starters and went from there!

Enjoy the rest of August! Keep Reading!

Since Last I Wrote . . .

2008-08-14T14:26:00.000-07:00

I have seen more 'crack flowers'! The hanging baskets and planters from last year have seeded lots of the sidewalk cracks in downtown Bloomington.

Personally, I love seeing self-seeded flowers wherever they are. Since we are always trying to beautify the downtown area this is a wonderful solution - I think!

I have seen lots of family members lately! My nieces (my sister's girls) and their children came to our house in late July. We had a wonderful time playing with them and experiencing the joys of Miller Park. It is a great place for the whole family to spend an afternoon! Try it sometime!

This is Samantha Margaret with her Grandma Weeks. Samantha is the youngest member of the Carter clan. She is as cute as a button and, she was really good while visiting with us!

We went to one evening of the McKenna Reunion - Rick's mom's side of the family.

We also hosted a "Laleday Celebration" for Rick's family - Mom and Grandpa Al and his six brothers and sisters and all their children and grandchildren. It turned into a two day fest and we all had a great time. This was held partially at our house and partially at Comlara Park/Lake Evergreen, north of Bloomington-Normal.

This is a picture of almost everyone who attended. Some didn't get to the house until late and some had to leave early, but with this size family you do the best you can!

Our weather feels more like September than August and I am very grateful. It has been relatively cool and dry - no humidity is WONDERFUL!!!

Enjoy your late summer - and Keep Reading

Connie
About Books Inc
221 E. Front St.
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-829-3999
www.aboutbooksbloomington.com

What I Saw on My Walk

2008-07-24T14:25:00.000-07:00

Here are the lovely "crack flowers" I saw on my walk today. Enjoy!

Home from the road!

2008-07-05T11:23:00.000-07:00

Well, we are back in Illinois and not planning any more road trips - at least not yet! I've included pictures from Sarah and Britton's wedding and one from out Texas weekend, of Rachel, of course!

After almost a week in New York City we headed for Fort Worth, Texas - this time we drove!

It was an interesting trip, what with all the recent flooding in Illinois and especially along the Mississippi River. We were amazed at some of the corn fields.

By this time the corn is usually about shoulder high - we saw some that had to have been recently planted, or should I say, replanted. The corn was barely up - I think we need to pray for a long summer and fall so that all new crops have time to grow and mature properly. There were many fields that had not been touched and many that had very wet spots showing.

We were fortunate to spend the week in New York with lots of family. We had a blast! We were so happy that the siblings, aunts, uncles and cousins who were able to make it to New York had a good time.

We went to Texas for another wedding and saw tons of old friends from Illinois!?! When you spend a long time in small towns, your friends become your family! We wouldn't have missed that wedding unless it had happened the weekend before it did (one can't miss their own daughter's wedding!).

Have a good July and keep reading!

About Books Inc.
221 E. Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-829-3999
www.aboutbooksbloomington.com

JUNE SWOON!

2008-06-06T14:12:00.000-07:00

Things at the bookstore are about the same - inventory, re-inventory, and try to sell some books!

Here we are in June - and the heat has hit early! The roses are in bloom, the geraniums look great and the day lilies are close to shooting some flowers. We have had so much rain the lawns in my neighborhood and around town are getting mowed every two to three days. In spite of being close to 90 degrees the past couple days, I am not turning on the air conditioner yet - the old building has not gotten too hot, yet, and ceiling fans are a good thing. When it hits 80 degrees in the store I'll have to reconsider.

I am gearing up for a couple trips this month - does it seem like I am always going somewhere? I'll be in New York, NY in two weeks and in Fort Worth, TX the following week - wedding season is in full bloom! That also means I get to see my granddaughter two weeks in a row, yeah! - see the attached photo : ) She will be two when we see her next - hard to believe!

We also have two new babies in our extended family - both were born in May and both are beautiful! Congratulations to both my nieces and their families!

Keep Reading and enjoy your summer!

About Books Inc
221 E. Front St.
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-839-3999
aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com
www.aboutbooksbloomington.com

Tuesday - Friday: 10:30-5:30
Saturday: 10:30-4
Closed Sunday and Monday

2008-05-08T09:04:00.000-07:00

WELCOME TO HISTORIC, DOWNTOWN BLOOMINGTON, IL!

You have found the blog of About Books Inc., 221 E. Front Street in historic, downtown Bloomington. The store has been in existence for almost 14 years! I worked for the founders for 7 1/2 years then bought the business from them. The store looks pretty much the same as when I started in January 1998. I have moved a few things and brought the nice barrister cases to the front and filled them with beautiful old leather volumes. I also took down the old discount store computer desk and now I work from an old flat desk with a drawer that can be opened from the front or back of the desk - cool!

Here are some more books I received lately, some of these are of local interest to the McLean County area of Illinois.

Lincoln's Manager David Davis by Willard L. King

Quaker Pioneers by Harriet Fyffe Richardson which deals with the Fell family history - Jesse W. Fell was the founder of Normal, IL

History of McLean County from 1879

The Good Old Times in McLean County, Illinois . . . by Dr. E. Duis dated 1874

I also have in the store, but not inventoried yet, many books for the Scottie collector. The previous owner has brought in her collection of books which either are about Scotties, have a picture of a Scottie on the cover or somewhere in the book, or are in some way or another Scottie related - including value guides for Scottie collectibles. (Scottish Terriers - not some guy named Scottie!)

Have a good weekend and Keep Reading!

About Books Inc
221 E. Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-829-3999
www.aboutbooksbloomington.com
aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com

OPEN: Tuesday - Friday 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. and Saturday 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
CLOSED: Sunday and Monday

Old Home Week

2008-04-22T11:49:00.000-07:00

It has been old home week at the bookstore - for the last couple weeks! Leighton, the red-headed New Zealander who worked here for awhile and his family stopped in. It is always fun to see him - he is young and funny!

The previous owner, Steve, stopped in today. He is back from Arizona - taking a break from sunshine and tennis to get the house in Normal ready for sale.

Just now, Tom, who used to live upstairs, next door to the store and worked here years ago is in looking for Steven King books. Tom is a true free spirit - in Bloomington!

I have been working on getting some sections of the store re-inventoried. I started with cookbooks, but got too hungry all the time so I moved to short stories. I have also gotten several big piles of books listed in the inventory lately. Here is a listing of a few titles:

James Patterson - Cross, Step on a Crack and Mary, Mary - hardbacks

Malcolm Gladwell - The Tipping Point, trade paperback; Blink, hardback

Bruce Thomas - Door County, Wisconsin's Peninsular Jewel, hardback

Alfred Lansing - Endurance, Shackleton's Incredible Voyage, trade paperback

Lt. Col. Jay Kopelman - From Baghdad, With Love, hardback

Stephen Pyles - The New Texas Cuisine, hardback

Joseph Campbell - Oriental Mythology, Primitive Mythology, Occidental Mythology, trade paperbacks

This is just a small sampling of the newer items in the store. I also have several books by local authors and some local history items as well.

Stop by for a good spring read - you need a break from all the spring activities which are currently keeping us all busy and entertained.

About Books Inc
221 E. Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-829-3999
aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com
www.aboutbooksbloomington.com

Tuesday - Friday: 10:30 am - 5:30 pm
Saturday: 10:30 am - 4 pm
CLOSED SUNDAY & MONDAY

Keep Reading!

WHERE IS SPRING?

2008-04-01T15:17:00.000-07:00

The first day of spring has come and gone. Easter has come and gone. It is April - where is SPRING?

We need sunshine and warmer temperatures!

I want to plant flowers! I want to take long walks without wearing my winter coat! I want to move the outdoor furniture outdoors! I want to get the bicycles out of the basement! AAAGGGHHHH!

Anyway, the old bookstore is suffering because of the weather also. Foot traffic is slow - no one wants to wander around downtown - too cold, too windy, no sunshine. If you do venture out and find your way to About Books Inc, mention the blog and I'll give you a 10% discount off your total purchase price.

KEEP READING!

About Books Inc
221 E. Front St.
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-829-3999

Tues-Fri 10:30-5:30
Sat 10:30-4
closed Sunday & Monday

www.aboutbooksbloomington.com
aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com

2008-03-07T13:00:00.001-08:00

I'm back to winter again!!!

I must admit, two weeks in Texas during the month of February was a very smart move on my part. The weather was great and spending that much time with family members was also great! We had the most fun with the "munchkin" to the left - she is almost two and changing and learning new things all the time. She loves 'Bob the Builder', buses, the dogs, balls and going outside - and of course her Nana and Dodd - she kept us busy all the time!

Beginning March 11, the store will be open the following hours:

Tuesday through Friday - 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Saturday - 10:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Sunday and Monday - CLOSED

About Books Inc
221 E. Front St.
Bloomington, IL 61701
www.aboutbooksbloomington.com
aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com

KEEP READING!

TOO MUCH WINTER!

2008-02-21T11:38:00.000-08:00

I have been back in Illinois for a week and a half and I can't wait to get out of here again. We are having way too many bitterly cold days and I am too old to like it!

We have been getting some days of sun, which helps a bit, but the 20 below zero wind chill does not!

I will be in Texas again next week - and have been told it should be a very nice week! (I can only hope!)

Jon will be tending the store again. He will not be doing any buying or trading - hopefully lots of selling. Stop in and see him and buy some winter reading.

About Books Inc
221 E. Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701

February Hours:
Tuesday - Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Closed Sunday and Monday

www.aboutbooksbloomington.com

aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com

KEEP READING!

ANOTHER TRIP TO TEXAS!

2008-01-31T11:48:00.002-08:00

Yes, it is true - I am heading back to warmer climate and a bright and sunny granddaughter. We are planning to leave Friday, February 1 (winter storm allowing) and I'll be back in the store February 12.

While I am gone, Jon will be keeping the store up and running. Stop in and say "Hi" and buy a few books! He will NOT be buying or trading books - save them for me the middle two weeks of the month.

FEBRUARY HOURS:

TUESDAY - SATURDAY
11 A.M. UNTIL 4 P.M.

CLOSED SUNDAY AND MONDAY

NO BUYING OR TRADING WHILE CONNIE IS GONE!

Keep Reading!

Happy New Year

2008-01-09T09:57:00.000-08:00

I hope you all enjoyed the holiday season and have gotten off to a great new year!

Things have quieted back down at About Books Inc - December ended up being a crazy, busy month! Thanks to everyone who shopped with us, your business is appreciated!

There is not much new inventory coming in yet, but I have a feeling cabin fever and cleaning will commence soon enough. When the weather gets cold and nasty (which I am sure is coming), it seems like people spend their time cleaning closets, attics, basements, etc and bringing me the results! Here is a list items in which I am interested:

Local History (McLean County, Bloomington-Normal, Illinois, etc.)
Abraham Lincoln
History
Military History
Science
Math
Cookbooks
Non-fiction in general - I'll know what I want when I see it

I DO NOT want the following:
Romance
Reader's Digest condensed Books
Hardback fiction
Encyclopedias
Magazines
Text books
Religion (I still have about 50 boxes to get through in the back room!)

Also, if books are falling apart or in general disrepair I will probably not want them - I have too many books like that already and they just don't sell.

If you have any questions, please call ahead - I can save you a trip if you can give me a general idea of the books you have.

As always, About Books Inc. is a good spot to spend a little time in downtown Bloomington, IL. The annual Downtown Bloomington Tour de Chocolat is scheduled for February 5 from 5-8 p.m. Hope to see you then.

Keep Reading!

ABOUT BOOKS INC.
221 East Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-829-3999

aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com
www.aboutbooksbloomington.com

2007-12-01T12:12:00.001-08:00

HAPPY HOLIDAYS
FROM ABOUT BOOKS INC.

The Christmas trees are up. The decorations are in place. The Christmas Parade was this morning - I guess it is time to start thinking "Christmas Gift Lists".

Don't forget the reader on your list. I have thousands of old, newer and always interesting books at About Books Inc. - for all the readers in your life.

If you can't find the right book, you can always purchase a gift certificate for any amount.

About Books Inc.
221 E. Front St.
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-829-3999

Hours:
Tues.-Fri. 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Sat. 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
closed Sun. & Mon.

Web address:
www.aboutbooksbloomington.com

As Always - Keep Reading!

2007-10-16T13:59:00.000-07:00

SAVE A TREE - BUY USED BOOKS!

About Books Inc
221 E. Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-829-3999
www.aboutbooksbloomington.com
aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com

This is the new look for About Books - the storefront has been painted and gold highlights have been added to the architectural features. It looks great, fresh and clean!

Keep Reading!

2007-09-13T11:33:00.000-07:00

ABOUT BOOKS INC
221 E. FRONT STREET
BLOOMINGTON, IL 61701
309-829-3999
www.aboutbooksbloomington.com

Tuesday - Friday
10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Saturday, 10:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
closed Sunday and Monday

2007-07-28T10:27:00.000-07:00

Bookstore Blog this month . . .

August 2007 is sale month at about Books Inc., 221 E. Front Street in downtown Bloomington, IL. All you need to do is mention you saw the sale notice on the blog. Easy As Pie - 15% off! Items from the sale area downstairs are excluded as are consignment items. Everything else is fair game! Come see me in August, mention the blog, and save money!

Keep Reading!

About Books Inc.
221 E. Front Street
Bloomington, Illinois

www.aboutbooksbloomington.com

2007-07-13T09:58:00.000-07:00

HAPPY FRIDAY, THE 13TH!

Don't you just love when we get spring weather smack dab in the middle of summer? It has been a great week in Central Illinois.

We had a great time in Texas in early June, then the kids came here the first week of July. We had fun with them here too and spoiled our granddaughter rotten - we did our job, and very well, I might add! She is a delight: loves water, music, being outside, swinging and of course eating! She is very close to walking another week or so, maybe.

Here are some photos of Rachel, our 1-year-old granddaughter having a good time in Illinois. She loved playing in the small fountains I have around and she loved Grandpa's boat. Avanti's spaghetti was also a big hit as were the garage sale toys we bought. We had a house full of family and friends on July 4th and had to wake Rachel up from a nap to say goodbye, that is why she is fussing in the picture with her grand-
mothers. Rick's Mom, Betty Vroman, is on the left and my Mom, Jean Carter, is on the right. We had a really nice time and were so happy to have everyone with us that day. A big thanks to Mary Beth and Marcia for making sure the 'greats' made it.

We have gotten settled back into our dull routines at home. I go to work, Rick goes fishing. I keep planting flowers, the critters keep eating them - and sometimes pulling them out by the roots! Too bad we can't keep the dog outside all night to chase whatever it is that is wreaking havoc on my attempts to have flowers in the back corners of our yard.

Anyway - this month seems to be a family blog instead of a book store blog. I hope no one minds. We are trying to get books inventoried, but we can't seem to get caught up at all. In fact, I should be doing inventory right now, or putting books away or something useful - maybe after lunch.

Keep Reading!

About Books Inc.
aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com
www.aboutbooksbloomington.com

JUNE VACATION TIME!

2007-06-05T15:12:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post to let you all know I will be on vacation from June 7 through June 12. Jon will have the store open regular hours while I am gone. He WILL NOT be buying or trading books.

If you have some items to bring in, please wait until June 14 or later - when I will be back in the store and able to look at them. I will be regrouping on the 13th and would prefer not to look at books that day.

Please, feel free to call if you have any questions.

About Books Inc Store Hours:
Tuesday - Friday 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Saturday 10:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

www.aboutbooksbloomington.com
aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com

2007-05-16T09:14:00.000-07:00

ABOUT BOOKS INC. BLOOMING BOOK SALE

SATURDAY, MAY 19
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

You've visited the Farmer's Market and seen the flower pots being planted, now you are on that second (or third) cup of coffee and waiting until Tour de Metro starts at 11 a.m. - how do you spend that extra time? Come to the "Blooming Book Sale" at About Books Inc., 221 East Front Street in downtown Bloomington, IL. Everything will be sale priced with an extra incentive for cash purchases!

About Books Inc. is big, clean and has something for everyone (and almost everything has been shelved)! The piles of books that some of you love to dig through are here also. Check the BASEMENT SALE AREA for those $2.00 hard back books and $1.00 paper back books!

There will also be a preview of the Todd Phillips collection. I am selling his collection for his wife Debbie. Todd had some fantastic books and I can't wait to price and inventory them. Ask about this special collection on Saturday.

COME SPEND TIME IN BLOOMINGTON'S FINEST USED BOOK STORE!

Welcome, Spring!

2007-04-24T14:13:00.000-07:00

Welcome to About Books Inc. We have strung together four nice days in a row - the flowering trees are, the trees are being trees and opening new leaves and the sun has been shining! Hooray!

I have some new collections that have been added to the store inventory. There is a collection of 'knife' books which includes books about bladed weapons, knifecraft and how to make knives. This collection of books also included books on black powder gunsmithing, powder horns, and Plains rifles.

I have also recently added several more architecture books, some books on Ireland as well as some on horses. I have also added more Lakeside Classics - they are always nice. And, don't forget to ask if you don't find something in the on-line inventory, I only have about one quarter of the books inventoried! Doing inventory is an on-going process and I can't catch up, let alone get ahead!

I have also got some fun children's books for sale, "The Hole Book", "The Rocket Book", "The Slant Book" and "The Magic String Book". They are cute - the Hole Book and the Rocket Book have 'holes' all the way through them - one from a gunshot and one from a rocket! The Slant Book is slanted and the Magic String Book has, of course, a 'magic string'! Anyway, they are fun to look at.

When you are at the store stop next door at A. Gridley Antiques on Friday or Saturday to see Jim and Andy. They are always bringing new items into their store also.

It is also about Farmers' Market time again. The market on Bloomington's Courthouse Square begins May 19, 6:45 - 11 a.m. (Farmers' market and Artists' Alley runs through October 27.) May 19 is also the day for the Adopt-a-Pot celebration (sorry, mine already has pansies in it) and Tour de Metro. Tour de Metro is a tour of downtown homes which runs from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Check www.downtownbloomington.org for details.

Mention that you saw the blog or website the next time you visit About Books Inc. and get a 10% discount on your purchases!

Oh, yeah, that little cutie in the picture is Rachel and she is 10 months old now!

See you soon - keep reading!

Say Hello to the About Books Baby!

2007-03-20T12:06:00.000-07:00

When the kids were in town last week they stopped at the store one afternoon - and obviously Rachel loved it! We had a good time while they were here and miss them like crazy now.

The only one who seems happier is the dog - I think he was getting tired of another dog on his turf!

There are many new books at the store - I felt like I was always handing out money the last week or so. Not everything is inventoried, but we are working on it. There are books on or about Ireland, architecture, horses, fiction and lots of other topics. Be sure to ask if you can't find something on the shelves or in the on-line inventory.

Speaking of 'we' I have a new assistant. Be sure to say hello to John Hicks when you are in next time. He will be working 10 hours a week and giving me some time off when I feel the need for a vacation. Welcome, John!

Keep Reading and enjoy the early spring weather!

2007-03-09T10:46:00.000-08:00

Spring is in the Air!

The snow has melted, mostly. It has started to smell like damp earth and the gardeners are starting to look for signs of early bulbs! Yeah! The dog and I are now taking 60-70 minute walks instead of 30-45 minutes. We both really enjoy it, he really likes it when I let him run in the prairie.

The Texas portion of the family is driving to Illinois for their spring break. Scott said they must be the only people going north for spring break! See photo for the cutest part of the family and her dog, Sparky! We expect them sometime Saturday. It will be the first really long trip for Rachel - we hope she sleeps most of the way and is entertained by the dog the rest of the trip! We miss having the kids close, but really look forward to their visits. Safe journey to them - see you Saturday and ALL THE MOM RULES!

There is nothing new at the book store. I have been working on getting books inventoried and now I've discovered that there is a problem with the inventory manager I'm using. I inventoried about 50 books yesterday, it uploaded 6 - that is not good! I've sent an email, hopefully the technicians will get it figured out!

Be sure to stop at About Books whenever you are in Bloomington, IL.

KEEP READING!

WELCOME!

2007-02-22T11:13:00.000-08:00

Welcome to About Books Inc. It is another sunny, chilly day in Central Illinois - and the snow continues to melt! Here is another great Rachel picture to bring a smile to your faces.

Tour de Chocolate was a rousing success - even though the Front Street crowd was a mere fraction of the Main and Center Streets crowd, we drew some fun, quality folks into our stores! Thanks to everyone who stopped by and had some Kisses (the Hershey's type) with me. I saw some new faces and heard lots of great comments about the book store. I hope everyone comes back to take advantage of the 20% off coupons I handed out as well. I still have lots of chocolate left so stop in for books and chocolates sometime soon!

About Books Inc. is closing at 2 p.m. February 22. We have lost another family member, this time it is Rick's Uncle Dale. We will be heading to Fulton, IL for his visitation this evening. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Aunt Myona and Debbie and Mary Kay and their families.

Have an enjoyable last week of February and, as always, Keep Reading!

2007-02-15T13:33:00.000-08:00

That's right -
"Surrender to Chocolate"

Tuesday, February 20, 2007 from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. Downtown Bloomington Merchants will be hosting 'Tour de Chocolate'. Walk the downtown area and experience a feast for the senses . . . chocolate treats, chocolate drinks and special events . . . come and indulge. For more information about this event please phone the Downtown Bloomington Association office at 309-829-9599 or visit www.downtownbloomington.org. Many of the merchants plan special sales or other promotions for that evening as well. During Tour de Chocolate, sales will be discounted 20% at About Books Inc., 221 E. Front St. in downtown Bloomington. I hope to see lots of you on Tuesday evening!

Remember my new website is up and running - www.aboutbooksbloomington.com

Keep Reading!

HAPPY FEBRUARY!

2007-02-01T11:26:00.000-08:00

My new web site is up and running - even though it is still a work in progress.

www.aboutbooksbloomington.com

You can email the store (me) from that site as well as from the hotmail account:
aboutbooksinc@hotmail.com

A reminder that the new trade program is in effect - 1/2 trade, 1/2 cash.

I have opened ALLthe boxes in the back store room and have the books out on 'shelves' so I can see what is there. I never thought I would get that far back there, but, YEAH! There were about 5 more boxes of religion books, so keep an eye out for 'new' additions to the shelves.

Also, I'm sorry to anyone who came in to the store in January and were frightened by the dog. He likes being at the store, but he is very protective of me and his space. He is harmless, but sounds very scary when he barks (and looks very scary when he charges to the front from the back of the building)! I have decided he needs to protect the house more than me during the day, so About Books will be a dogless book store, or he'll have to be a back room dog!

Have fun at your Super Bowl parties - Go, Bears! Or, if you are like me, enjoy the movie or whatever else you opt to do instead of watching the entire game.

Keep Reading

2007-01-24T10:09:00.000-08:00

January Recap - now that it is winter!

I had a wonderful, albeit short, weekend in New York Jan. 6-8. When I arrived in the Big Apple Jan. 6 it was over 70 degrees outside!!! I don't think it got below 50 while I was there. We enjoyed an afternoon walking all over Manhattan trying to find a neighborhood diner for brunch - we were successful and ate like we were starving. (I hadn't eaten since 4:30 a.m. central time and it was after 1 eastern time - so I was really hungry!) Sarah and I went on to Brooklyn and spent the afternoon walking and people watching in Prospect Park. I love that people in the 'Big Cities' really get out and use their parks on wonderful, warm, sunny days. There were more adults, kids, babies and dogs than I had seen all in one spot for a long time. Everyone was friendly, and really enjoying the fresh air.

When it started cooling off we decided to go to the Brooklyn Museum for their First Saturday evening of exhibits. When we approached the museum we saw hordes of people outside waiting to get in. It was decided then and there we'd come back first thing Sunday for the Annie Leibovitz exhibit. Instead of the museum, we went to get a burger at Bonnie's Burgers (very highly recommend this little diner - great burgers & fries). We also saw a movie, "Volver" with Penelope Cruz, really fun and enjoyed by both of us. We did get to the museum again on Sunday - after a bagel & cream cheese at La Bagel Delite (Delight). I can't remember how they spell it! The Leibovitz exhibit was worth the crowds. We were both glad to be in and out fairly early, though. It got very hot and very crowded within about an hour of opening time. We also saw their Visible Storage display - it was a museum storage are where everything is climate - light, temperature, etc. - controlled and really fun to see. There are computer terminals around the room for research purposes. Really a neat area. After brunch with Sarah's boyfriend at a nice little cafe near his apartment we went into Manhattan. We headed right for Strands - 18 miles of BOOKS! Yes, I bought more books. These are here, inventoried and on the shelf (or nearby) waiting for you all to come in and buy them! The books I bought in Manhattan were mostly Civil War and Abe Lincoln related. I am sure I have nothing that the hard-core collectors need, but some casual readers of that era might find something interesting. I also have the books from Texas inventoried and on the shelves. Stop in and see if there is anything you might need.

On Monday, before I headed for the airport, I took a tour of The Gimbel Library at Parsons The New School for Design where Sarah works. She loves her job as a librarian, and she loves where she works. It was fun to see, now I can picture her at work!

Since I've been home we've had some snow and the Texas kids have had extra 'winter weather' days off from work. When San Antonio, TX gets ice, they have no salt supplies to put on the bridges & overpasses, so everything freezes and get dangerous. Scott and Monica had Jan. 16 & 17 off work. That gave them a 2-day work week! Also, Rachel has two teeth now and has a great smile that shows them off well, as you can see from the above picture!

NEW WEB SITE IS UP: http://www.aboutbooksbloomington.com
Thanks, Scott!

Enough for now - Keep Reading!

2007-01-02T11:45:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season - whichever holiday you celebrate! I had a wonderful, warm Christmas in Texas and a chilly New Year in Illinois. All is well with family and friends and the sun is shining again in Illinois!

I purchased some new books for the store while in Texas. They will be here later in the week. I will probably not get them into the inventory until next week or later.

I began working in the back room again this morning! YIKES! It is still full of boxes and boxes of unknown treasures and some not great treasures! I have to keep wiping my nose since I'm stirring up old dust that I am not used to yet!

Remember the new trade policy is in effect - copies are at the front counter. There will be a grace period and some tweaking as we go along, I'm sure.

Also, I'll be gone this Saturday. My husband will be here and will close the store at 3 p.m. that day.

I am heading to Brooklyn this weekend. I am going to see my daughter and to see the Annie Leibovitz exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum. I love big cities a that can be traversed on foot - so I really don't need another reason, but there you are. Seems the Brooklyn Museum has special First Saturday events so Sarah and I have lucked into that!

Enjoy the week and remember special hours on Saturday, January 6 are 10:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Keep Reading
Connie

2006-12-13T14:05:00.000-08:00

What a difference a week and a half can make! The weather is relatively warm for December - about 40 degrees and brilliantly sunny!! The warmer weather has melted all the snow and ice and for that I am very grateful - I really live in the wrong part of the world for winter!

Today I sold the book featured and pictured in the cold, dreary November blog posting: "Abbildungen zu Oken's Naturgeschichte fur alle Stande" by Oken. I also sold a book entitled "Narrative of the Expedition of an American Squadron to the China Sees and Japan" from the 1850s which included multiple fold-out maps to the same man. I have a wonderful new customer from Chicago who is a rare book buyer - not just browser! He is a very interesting person as well as a thorough book purchaser. Thanks - you made my day (month)!

It has been an odd week for phone inquiries. Many people are calling and asking for stacks of titles, or pulling stacks from the shelves, then having me hold them - they will be in later in the week to pay! I hope they all show up:)

Another reason for my glee and happiness is I get to see my kids and granddaughter in just 11 days! How can a person not be happy to see this little cherub?

Enjoy the rest of the "Holiday Season" and I'll post again in the new year.

Remember, I'll be closed on December 26, 27, & 28.

Welcome to Winter Central Illinois

2006-12-01T09:50:00.000-08:00

Well, it finally happened - winter weather! The picture is looking out my front window at the tree branches heavy with ice!

We got smacked with freezing rain, wind, then snow and more wind. Schools are not in session, traffic is nearly nonexistent and the foot traffic in downtown Bloomington is also pretty sparse. I think once the street crews get out again and the days get older things will pick up. My first customer walked through the door at 11:30 a.m., an hour after I open.

We are having our "Once Upon a Holiday" festivities in downtown Bloomington this weekend. We like the lovely, fluffy snow for this weekend. You know the kind that makes everyone yearn for a quieter, gentler time. It seems to make people want to get out and walk about the sidewalks and take in the holiday decorations. Hopefully tomorrow will be a sunnier, snowy day and lots of folks will be out and about.

As for me - it is back to doing inventory! Have a great weekend and I hope your weather is more plesant than ours here in Central Illinois!

Strange Days at About Books

2006-11-16T10:02:00.000-08:00

Here it is, a week until Thanksgiving (my favorite holiday, by the way) and it is dead at the book store. Yesterday no one came through the door until 12:15 p.m., I open at 10:30 a.m. Today I have had two people asking for directions to other businesses downtown, one man drumming up business for his father-in-law, the window washer, and my neighbor, Jim, from the antique store wanting me to order books for him (I guess that makes him sort of a customer). I sometimes think I could do business from home, but then I remember I don't have a house big enough for 100,000 books!! I will do what always works for me - keep busy and blame the cold, grey, dreary November weather! The top picture is the view entering the store - just to give you an idea of what About Books Inc looks like.

Anyway, here is a little bit about what I feel is the the most interesting book I have in the store, a page is pictured above:
"Abbildungen zu Oken's Naturgeschichte fur alle" by Oken. It is a nature book with hand colored plates. It was published in 1843 and survived the Chicago fire. There are notes written by the owner on several pages in this volume:

"I had loaned this to my Cousin Henry Reuter of Chicago who had it for a few years and when at the fire of '71 it was barely saved showing some of the water marks & tears of the fire. I had it rebound as per bill within these pages but children & others interested has torn some parts of it again. A.H. Mundt, Fairbury, Ill."

Written near the publication date:
"4 years before I was born in 1847, Aug. 5th I know that when at the age of 10 I began to collect butterflies that I was told that my father had paid $88.00 in gold for this book a year after their steel engravings, hand colored (water color) with the 10 vol. now in my den all in Latin & German. Only a few more printed & sold long since out of print. A.H. Mundt"

Written on the page facing frogs:
"The soils on this and other pages and the tears in the different parts of this valuable volume of Natural History is the commemoration of the great Chicago Fire of October 8th, 1871. The book has since been rebound by the owner. Several Plates destroyed. A.H. Mundt"

I think the book itself is very interesting and pretty darn fantastic. But, I think this little bit of personal history is even more fantastic!

Enjoy the rest of November, especially Thanksgiving, and stay warm if you are in the col northern climate!

About Books Inc.

2006-11-01T12:27:00.000-08:00

Welcome to About Books Inc. I have decided to give 'blogging' a try since it seems to be the wave of the future (and the current)! I have worked at this book store since 1998 and purchased it from my previous bosses in July of 2005. Following is a bit of information about the store and downtown Bloomington:

About Books Inc. is a used book store in downtown Bloomington, IL that was opened in August, 1994. Bloomington has an historic downtown business district that is currently undergoing lots of renovation and restoration. The business district is vibrant and alive with small shops, restaurants, and bars as well as State Farm Insurance, banks and offices. The old courthouse is home to the McLean County Museum of History and is a beautiful building. The building in which my store is located was built in 1888 by John Y. Chisholm (of the Chisholm Trail fame). I am located across the street from the old Central Fire Station which was built after the 'big fire' of the late 1800s. Central Station is currently a very nice restaurant which has been in business for 30 years. The upper two stories of my building have been undergoing renovation for more than a year. What used to be eight small apartments are now 4 very nice size condominiums, The work is nearly complete which means more peace and quite and lots less dust and dirt for the book store.

I will post periodically as time and inventory allow. If there are interesting items that I acquire or that are brought to me I'll be sure to fill you in on them. I currently have a nature/botanical book in German that survived the Chicago Fire in 1871. The plates are hand colored and very nice. This book has several small notes detailing the history of the book and its survival of the fire. It is nice for its age and ordeal!

Until next time - Keep Reading!