Real Books Find a New Home in Sedona
by Miller McMillan
Mention the words ‘independent bookstore’ to some people and their eyes will soften with nostalgia recalling printed pages in real books. But in Sedona, the eyes are alive with excitement as they discover a new bookstore, the Literate Lizard.
Bookstore founder Eve Hunter recalls visiting Sedona last year and talking with local people about books. Her informal research inspired pursuit of a lifelong dream. “When I heard Sedona did not have a general publication bookstore, I knew the time was right to give it one,” she said. The former Scottsdale psychologist began her life’s next chapter, hanging her shingle in red rock country.
Hunter found an expansive space on West Sedona’s highly traveled State Road 89A, where the store’s visual experience quickly came to life. She acquired creative bookshelves from a local merchant and filled them with a fresh collection. Some titles arrived by donation and estate sales, and most titles today are new editions from wholesale suppliers. Used books also occupy a few shelves in categories ranging from mysteries to mystical.
Hunter waxes positive about the first few months of business since opening. With no traditional advertising except a logo, a store sign and brightly covered bookmarks, traffic has been lively. She explains that word spreads quickly in the small Arizona city, especially when the topic is close to people’s hearts and reading lamps. “I have welcomed so many people who appreciate what I’m offering here. Naturally, they tell their friends.”
Skeptics might ask, “Can an independent bookstore really compete with online giants? Look at what happened to Borders and many small neighborhood stores. Hunter’s answer is convincing: “I have seen so many people walk in and invest in books that are available elsewhere. It’s about the partnership with community we offer here.”
Visitors to Sedona are known to seek special experiences, and bookstores are a favorite retreat from urban stress. With the Literate Lizard, Hunter has created a place to log out and tune in, which she feels is good for health. “Scientists are finding that too much Internet, for all its convenience, is not good for the brain.”
The Los Angeles Times confirmed that observation in the article “Kids don’t need a cellphone; they need a digital diet.” According to the article, studies have found that obesity, attention-span issues and psychological problems including depression are intensified by overuse of electronic devices (Los Angeles Times, January 2, 2018, Opinion, op-ed).
Hunter feels that a diet rich in real books is an answer to digital distress. “We all love what electronics bring, but overindulgence in anything can be an issue,” she says. “I think people long for a place where devices take a break and conversations turn up the volume.”
The Literate Lizard’s healthy alternative provides an opportunity to browse, meet fellow travelers and share stories. Hunter has set the table for healthy discourse on a sunny patio serving coffee and sunshine. Inside, she hosts regular events including talks by guest authors and local artists. Classes for children and adults are on the agenda, affirming the values of personal growth and lifelong learning.
Events are held within a warm atmosphere. The Literate Lizard interior reflects the owner’s passion for design and expertise in customer experience. Anchored near the entrance, half a Philippines fishing boat has been transformed into creative shelving that invites customers to embark on literary explorations. Inventive displays are found throughout the store, hosting a diversity of titles. Illumination is abundant through floor-to-ceiling windows and in books shedding light on a broad range of topics.
A published writer herself, Hunter is passionate about the role of books in society. “Books are treasures people tend to keep a long time. They want to turn the pages — and have a good look between them. Can anyone judge a book by a digital cover?”
Hunter is optimistic about the future of independent bookstores. “We are returning to values we have missed over the past 20 years. Books are about people and things that really matter.”
The Literate Lizard invites Sedona visitors to enjoy a good book.
1575 W. State Road 89A, Suite D, Sedona, AZ 86336
Open 10am to 6pm daily
Free parking behind the store