By Jennifer Jahn
NKyTribune staff writer
For Stephanie Wagner, opening an independent bookstore wasn’t simply a business venture — it was the fulfillment of a long-held dream.
That dream became reality during the government shutdown in October 2025 when Wagner and her husband decided to take a leap of faith and open The Reading Corner. Since then, the journey has been filled with challenges, rewards, and countless opportunities to connect with the community.
“Opening a bookstore has been a dream of mine for years,” Wagner said. “The journey has been amazing, frustrating, humbling, and rewarding all at once. I’ve met so many wonderful people through the bookstore, and I’m learning something new every day.”
The positive response from local residents has reinforced Wagner’s belief that the community needed a welcoming space dedicated to books and readers of all ages.
“I knew our community was missing a place like The Reading Corner,” she said. “Nothing makes me happier than seeing kids walk through the door and get excited about reading.”
As a woman- and veteran-owned small business, The Reading Corner offers something that online retailers and big-box stores cannot replicate: personal connections.
“When you shop at an independent bookstore, you’re doing more than buying a book,” Wagner explained. “You’re supporting a dream, a family, and a community.” The personal connections include Wagner’s own family, her customers and authors as she has a special display table just for local authors.
That community focus goes beyond selling books. Wagner hopes to continue finding ways The Reading Corner can give back, particularly to veterans and educators, two groups that hold a special place in her heart.
One of the bookstore’s newest initiatives is the Teacher’s Closet, a program designed to help local educators access classroom supplies without paying out of pocket.
“The goal is to create a space where teachers can come and ‘shop’ for classroom supplies without having to spend their own money,” Wagner said. “It will require support and donations from the community, but I’ve already been encouraged by the interest and enthusiasm people have shown.”
The bookstore’s shelves reflect the interests of its customers. Mystery, thriller, and romance novels remain popular among adult readers, while younger customers frequently gravitate toward the Dog Man series and manga titles. Wagner also pays close attention to customer requests and reading trends when selecting inventory.
In addition to books, visitors will find gift certificates, literary-themed gifts, games, and puzzles. Wagner wants every customer to feel welcome, whether they arrive searching for a specific title or simply browsing.
“We offer books in every genre, so there’s something for every reader,” she said. “We want every visit to feel inviting, inspiring, and memorable.”
The Reading Corner is also becoming a gathering place for the community. The store offers space rentals for book clubs, craft nights, and game nights. Through Aug. 1, families can attend Story Time with April every Thursday from 4:30-5 p.m.
The bookstore will host its first author event on July 17 when author Chris Demeropolis visits to read her book, Teddy Lou, Bell Guru. Additional events are planned throughout the summer and fall.
Ultimately, Wagner believes independent bookstores remain relevant because they provide something increasingly rare in today’s digital world: genuine human connection.
“In a world where so much happens online, there is something special about connecting face-to-face, sharing recommendations, and building relationships with customers who become friends,” she said. “That’s something you simply cannot put in a shipping box.”
For Wagner, every book purchased locally helps strengthen the community she serves. And with each customer who walks through the door, The Reading Corner continues to write its own story, turning one page at a time.
For more information about hours, books, and events, please visit The Reading Corner’s Facebook page or visit in-person at 8361 E Main St, Alexandria.
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