Square Books, located on the Historic Courthouse Square in the center of downtown Oxford is an independent bookstore that opened in September of 1979. However, Square Books is not just a bookstore, it is much more.
With three separate buildings, this store has become a member of the Oxford community over the past 30 years. The first addition, Off Square Books, opened in late 1993. This lifestyle branch has an extensive collection of art, photography, cooking, gardening and travel books, although it has a large collection of used books, as well. The second addition, Square Books Jr., opened in 2003 and houses not only a large selection of children’s literature, but also games, educational toys and puzzles.
Between the three different locations, Square Books proves to be a literary hub in Oxford and throughout the world.
What makes this bookstore such an attraction? The important role it plays as a member of Oxford’s community.
Housing more than 150 author events per year, Square Books has “established itself as a sort of Mecca for bibliophiles,” said previous employee Kaleb Hilton.
It is known for its literary fiction, books on the American South, and its showcases of southern writers.
“When I say working at the bookstore wasn’t just a job, I meant that it is also a chance to be part of something very special and important, both to myself as well as to the collective consciousness of the South,” Hilton said.
Owner Richard Howorth opened Square Books with his wife, Lisa, in the late ‘70s after a relocation back to Oxford from Washington, D.C. For two years Howorth and his wife worked at a prominent D.C. bookstore called The Saville. While he was growing up, Howorth mentioned there was no bookstore in Oxford and therefore it was the perfect place – it was the perfect time. He and his wife were at a time in their life in which they were making a career change.
“Opening a bookstore in Oxford had always been in the back of my mind growing up,” Howorth said. “While Oxford has always been the home to the university and William Faulkner, it is a different city now than it was back then.”
This year Square Books was named the 2013 Publishers Weekly Bookstore of the Year, a very prestigious title.
“I feel like I could be in New York City, San Francisco or Seattle when at Square Books because people, tourists and authors alike, come from all over the world to visit this special place – it exposes you to the world,” said Alissa Lilly, employee of Off Square Books.
This sense of intellect and culture also carries over into the children’s branch.
“A bookstore for kids and adults who act like kids,” said Jill Moore, buyer for Square Books Jr. “Community is number one and what it absolutely takes to be a success.”
Square Books Jr. has weekly story times, inviting all members of the community, Wednesday and Saturday mornings at 10 a.m.
Community involvement is the central theme throughout all Square Books locations. With story times, book signings, readings and the weekly live Thacker Mountain Radio Show; there is much to offer.
“If I were to return to college as a student at The University of Mississippi, I would make sure to take advantage of everything the bookstore has to offer – all of the events are free of charge,” said Lyn Roberts, manager or Square Books.
