Nestled in the vibrant area of Sugar House, Central Book Exchange has been a cherished fixture for book lovers since its inception in 1968.
Renowned for its impressive selection of rare and antique books available at affordable prices, this quaint bookstore offers a browsing experience unlike any other.
As you navigate through the store’s extensive shelves, you are likely to encounter an array of out-of-print books and hard-to-find treasures, making each visit an adventure for avid readers.
Calvin Asch, the passionate owner of Central Book Exchange, emphasizes the significance of fostering a sense of community within the bookstore.
“The most important thing a bookstore can have is a sense of community, especially a used bookstore,” Asch stated, highlighting his vision for the shop.
Under his stewardship, Central Book Exchange champions local authors and artists by organizing events such as meet-ups and book signings, allowing these talented individuals to showcase their works.
Asch believes that Utah is home to many remarkable authors who often go unrecognized.
“Utah has a lot of tremendous authors that don’t quite get the same recognition as others,” he remarked, reinforcing his commitment to supporting local talent.
Beyond promoting local writers, Central Book Exchange actively gives back to its community with the Annual Parking Lot Sale, an event that has become a beloved tradition for the past fifteen years.
Set to take place on August 1 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and August 2 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the sale is hosted in the parking lot adjacent to the store at 2017 S 1100 E.
During this highly anticipated sale, attendees can find books priced between $1 to $3, making it an irresistible opportunity for book enthusiasts.
Asch noted, “There are people who return every year for the event and walk away with nearly a hundred books every time,” illustrating the sale’s popularity.
This year’s event will also introduce additional merchandise, such as T-shirts and tote bags featuring the Central Book Exchange logo, expanding the offerings available at the sale.
For local authors interested in featuring their books in Central Book Exchange, the process is straightforward.
Aspiring authors simply need to reach out to the bookstore, with the understanding that their book will undergo a screening phase before being placed on the shelves.
Asch expressed his desire to support local creative individuals, stating, “I really just want to support people from Utah who are in the creative industry that need to get their name out there.”
He added, “And we’re not Barnes and Noble, but any little thing helps for someone starting off, I think.”
Central Book Exchange stands out as a model community-focused business, boasting an owner dedicated to uplifting local talent while serving readers of all ages and backgrounds.
Whether you’re searching for a unique addition to your collection or simply want to enjoy the atmosphere, Central Book Exchange promises a delightful experience.
Don’t miss the chance to support this exceptional bookstore as summer draws to a close, and you might even get to meet Misty, a friendly Bernese Mountain dog who is part of the Central Book Exchange family.
For inquiries, local authors can reach out via email at [email protected] or [email protected]
image source from：dailyutahchronicle
