Gramercy Books — Local services in Bexley

Staff was kind yet incompetent when it came to dealing with the RL Stine book signing. Throughout my 2 1/2 hour wait, I was well aware that my odds of getting a signed book weren't high but that RL Stine would walk by to say hi to everyone in line once the signing ended for those who couldn't get a signature. This was in part due to the staff giving updates every now and then, which was appreciated. Once he was 15 feet away from me, the staff found it a good idea to announce that he would be leaving shortly and we would need to be quick in our interactions. Well they then announce that he is gone in 5 minutes which causes an uproar and people from way back in the line, who would've been able to meet him, swarm this 80 year old man for a picture. They quickly whisked him away before I could get a photo. Should I, having been 15 feet away, also rushed a frail old man? Seems unreasonable to me. Even as people flooded the street, the workers said that everyone needs off the street, but they didn't truly enforce the rule. If the workers didn't cause chaos, and if they could've controlled the chaos they created, then those who didn't get a signed book would've at least have gotten to meet and get a picture with a beloved author. Instead, I waited in the cold for 2 1/2 hours for the "privilege" of looking at RL...

Folks, I have a new favorite book store! While I still love Half Price for, well, half price books and eclectic doohickeys, Gramercy is an excellent place to go for a more curated experience. They have a fabulous YA and Children's selection, more graphic novels than either HPB or the library*, and they also have their own collection of unique items. Of particular interest to me were the sketchbook/coloring book selection and accessories, as well as the "book readers need this" items such as a book holder and various magnetic bookmarks. Plus, it's locally owned and operated which makes it an important business. Will definitely be returning!

*That is to say, a library SYSTEM has a fair number of graphic novels littered throughout the different branches, but (even before COVID) you can't go and browse an entire bookshelf's worth. Most I go to have maybe a singular shelf of non-comic book GNs. Here at Gramercy I found two by Neil Gaiman that I didn't know existed, as well as the Adventure Zone GN series and some comic anthologies. Much...

I went to Gramercy to attend a book signing, and it was my first time there, so I can't speak to much about the store except for the event.

Considering the author is relatively unknown to the general public, she drew a good sized crowd of avid followers, and we were packed in like sardines. The store is very small compared to a B&N, but that's its charm. As was its non-corporate feel.

The signing - and reading - were well organized, and plenty of employees were on hand to attend to the visitors. Signature seekers were given a slip of paper to write their name on so the author wouldn't have to ask you how to spell it. The line was first-come, first served, but everyone was very orderly.

Unfortunately, I don't live close enough to make a trip there without a reason like a book signing, but I hope to have a reason to visit again soon. It's a great...