First Light Book Shop — Local services in Austin

First Light is my third space and I love it more than I could put into words, but I'm going to try anyway!

The incredible atmosphere of First Light is topped only by its absolutely wonderful staff. Becky, Trevor, Ben, Laura, Ryan, Eliza, Noe, Max, Ocean, Chloe, Annie, Jordan, Brandon, Jane, those who have left this past year, and many more that I can't name in a single sentence are all the kindest people who always go above and beyond. They remember their regulars, they engage in conversation, and they are just generally so nice.

My partner and I often receive excellent book recommendations that show a real attention to our personal tastes.

Additionally, the drinks at the cafe are spectacular. The London Fog here is the best I've had in Austin and I recommend it to everyone. I also love the shrubs!

The events are always really well organized (shout out to Eliza and Bradley!). They had a member event earlier this year that demonstrated a beautiful sense of community centered around this space.

Speaking of the membership, it's a great deal! It pays for itself very, very quickly.

The book selection is up to date and also has plenty of classics, including some beautiful editions. They are always happy to order something for you if they don't have it in stock. I highly recommend reading the reviews in the children's book section!

Finally, the recurring events like trivia night, hot dogs/biergarten, burgers, oysters, etc. are always a blast.

Thank you, First Light, for everything you bring to the...

Customer service could use a boost. Walked up to the outside window to place an order as it has a sign pointing saying you could order there. They ignored me as folks looked at me as they were making drinks never acknowledged that I was standing there and just kept going about their business. Eventually a guy comes over opens the windows and says, yeah what can I get you? He seemed annoyed so I asked him was it ordering at the window a thing because he seemed agitated. He proceeds to say, yeah I mean I guess. I said is it or not because I can order inside if that is easier. He takes my order acting really annoyed and hands me my drink does not say thank you or enjoy or come back to see us nothing.

It was off putting because I love the space and have been multiples times. Now it seems like a typical austin shop where you can’t really get a seat unless you get there super early and instead of reading books that you bought or brought to read it’s just a spot to work remotely laptops everywhere. Takes away some of the essence. Oh and the inside is always super crowded around the ordering area no real understanding of where the line should be and tables oddly placed in the middle.

Hopefully with this feedback they will improve some of...

Just inside then to the left then at the corner to the right past one two three maybe four bookshelves and a window that might just be a memory of mine (the window's first) on the top shelf or the second shelf down at the very end (in the romanized way - the very beginning in the hebraic) or second from the end is a short collection of children's stories translated into English.

I think you should read them. I know if I live long enough I will.

Note also the strange stains on various walls. You won't remember them after you leave or even when you look at them, but that doesn't mean they aren't worth noting. It's difficult to hold their meanings steady or even believe they exist so get some others to note them as well, grab a book, have a coffee, and form a cult, religion, or other continuous set of experiences passed through signs, symbols, and existences. Try to pass the memory along that all of this, whatever it is, most likely could not have been without First...