Book Rack Books & Gifts — Local services in Peoria

I was contacted by this bookstore through a private Facebook account that isn't tied to my writing or public author identity in any way. When I asked how the owner found me and my FB account, her answers changed multiple times, first saying she found a list of central IL authors through a specific author, then claiming she used 15 different lists, then she said she just searched Facebook and Instagram. When I said I wasn't in central IL, she changed her story, once again, to say "Oh, I also just searched IL authors". She couldn't provide a single link or explanation that made sense, and she avoided addressing my repeated concern about privacy. And then told me I was irritating to her when I told her that none of what she told me makes any sense.

As an author who keeps a clear boundary between my private life and professional work, this felt invasive and deceptive. If someone is inviting authors to participate in events, they should be transparent about how they find people and respect those boundaries. I wouldn't feel comfortable working with this bookstore or attending any event they organize. She was very unprofessional, and never once tried to actually clear up the situation or look through her 15 "lists" to see where my info was (she could just hit "CTRL-F" and search my name, but apparently that was too hard for her). She just brushed me off and acted like I was the one being annoying, even though SHE was the one contacted ME. Which I still have ZERO idea how she even got my information.

I don't think I can reply to her comment below, but since my FB account I use has a FAKE NAME, I am still wondering where she got my information from...since it's literally IMPOSSIBLE for her to have contacted me through a random fake name from a "list" online of IL authors. AND there is no way she found me through "IL authors" on Facebook, since my FB account is listed as "North Pole, Alaska" and has been for over 10 years. She's doubling down on this whole "list" thing, but it's creepy and I really wish she'd stop talking to me, even through here. And I never once insulted her, other than saying it's creepy. Because it is. And I only messaged her 10 times, because she was evading my questions and giving me different answers every single time I asked her. I am not local to her, I am not "two hours away" as she says below, I do not know who she thinks I am, but this is probably one of the weirdest things to happen to me online in...

Update 4-2023 I am personally blown away with how much this store has grown. The candles are the best! Perfect amout of smell. Not overpowering but not so faint to be smelled at all. They have an online book sale every few months. You can get books for a few bucks to new items such as stuffed things with things in them to be warmed up in the microwave. You must hit this store!!!

Update 11-21-22 This is the book store you need to hit as well as bring the kids. It is for kids of all ages and reading levels as well as adults. This store reminds me of the book fair that the school had when I was a kid. They carry all of the cool things that are not books like spy pens, secret message pens, and so much cool stuff. The Big difference is the price is affordable. 2.99 for spy pen not 6 or 8 bucks. The books are affordable and beat the snot out of a well known chain book store. I have found nothing negative to say about this store. If you read my other reviews you will know that is not me to only have positive things. Orginal-Good books that you can get at affordable prices. I love...

I have been pleasantly surprised by this little bookstore! I went in when we first moved to the area a few years ago. The previous owner was very nice, but the prices were a little high for me. I’m a bargain hunter especially for used books. :) I have recently been reacquainted with this bookstore because of their Facebook posts and the new owner has really redone the whole store! I didn’t know it had changed! I have been so blessed by their free cart out front and had a great experience when I shopped. I found a good children’s selection and the prices just can’t be beat. I will still visit other bookstores but honestly- it is so nice to not have to mess with trade in credit to get a decent price. The Book Rack’s prices are straightforward and appropriate, in my opinion. Thanks so much for the great service you’ve added for us book lovers. I hope the children’s selection will...