Around Indies

Sam Weller’s to Open Airport Store

Sam Weller’s Bookstore, in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah, will open a branch store in SLC International Airport by 2013, according to Deseret News. The Weller’s store is part of an overall effort by the airport to revitalize concessions to better serve customers.

“We’re really eager to have an airport presence,” said bookstore co-owner Tony Weller, who is eager to bring “a little local flavor” to the country’s 25^th busiest airport.

Many national vendors and two other local businesses, Utah! and Utah’s Own, have also been awarded space at the airport. Construction will take place in stages, beginning in July and lasting about 18 months.

Minnesota Bookseller Featured in Poetry Collection

Laura Hansen, author and owner of Bookin’ It, in Little Falls, Minnesota, is featured in a new collection of poetry from Lost Hills Books.

The collection, Fog and Woodsmoke: Behind the Image, is edited by Stephani Schaefer and includes works by authors from around the country.

Hansen’s poetry is also included in the Poetry On, and Off, the Wall exhibit at the Five Wings Arts Council in Staples, Minnesota.

The Odyssey Bookshop Turns 40

Peninsula Daily News recently reported on the 40^th anniversary of The Odyssey Bookshop, in Port Angeles, Washington.

The store, now owned by April Bellerud, was founded in 1971 by Craig Whalley. Under his guidance, the business, which started out “tiny,” expanded into the space next door. Bellerud, who often helped out at the store, bought the business in 2009.

The newspaper noted that The Odyssey has been a popular setting for weddings, which were often officiated by Whalley, who is also a Universal Life minister.

Bellerud recently expanded the inventory to include children’s toys and gifts.

“I think when people go into a bookstore, they should find surprises,” she told Peninsula Daily News.