Storyline Bookshop — Local services in Upper Arlington

Think back to when you first fell in love with books. Maybe it was the moment you read about the Pevensie children stepping through the wardrobe into Narnia. Or when Matilda found a feeling of home at Miss Honey’s cottage. That’s exactly what Storyline feels like. This warm hug of a bookshop has quickly become one of my absolute favorite places in the Columbus area.

Each room within the shop carries its own special magic, from the romance and fantasy alcove, to the mystery and thriller nook, to the children’s section where many of my first favorites are nestled among the shelves. After stepping into the shop, you are immediately welcomed by the amazing staff who can’t wait to help you find your book of choice or share their own recommendations. Grab a cup of warm tea as you peruse the stacks and don’t miss the “blind date with a book” options at the front or the book ladder (the perfect photo op for any kindred spirits who loved Belle in Beauty and the Beast).

Janine and her staff have built such an incredible community, hosting an array of monthly book clubs, and their special events cannot be missed. Some of my favorites have included a You’ve Got Mail Day on the first day of fall (complete with bouquets of sharpened pencils), The Holiday viewing party (cocoa and books are always a good combination) and the Onyx Storm midnight release party (Andarna would have been so proud).

If you’re passionate about books, looking to make new friends in the bookish community, or wanting to support a local and woman-owned business, head to Storyline and experience the magic for...

If you are visibly black this is not the place for us. Stopped in for the first time yesterday with my sister, both of us are teen girls from a biracial background with my sister often passing for completely white while I never have. The two workers, lady at the desk and long wavy haired man, refused to speak to us as we came and went (despite us engaging with them) while speaking to EVERY other patron (all white), and watched/followed me through the store while my sister was able to roam freely. We ended up leaving without buying anything after we were concretely sure of the patterns. My word to the owner(s), you sell Toni Morrison, James Baldwin, and Alexandre Dumas, you make money off of these black writers and still would rather that black patrons not remain in your store. You are an asinine paradox that sums up the worst trait in people, hypocrisy. You're too old to not know better so this must be something other than ignorance, pure hatred. Pick up one of the numerous black authors on your shelves and read them for yourself to understand or just put up the 'Whites Only' sign you clearly miss. Local bookstores like Gramercy, Bookloft, Prologue, Birdie, and even Half-Price will be glad to receive the people you...

As an avid reader, a parent, and an English teacher, I was eager to check out Storyline Bookshop today. That excitement quickly turned into emotion-filled awe as I walked in. Not only was I struck by the beauty of the store, but I also felt instantly at home among the thoughtfully curated collection of books. I picked up one of the featured books, by Maggie Smith, who will be signing her books there this weekend. After reading this book in one sitting, I feel so grateful that our new neighborhood bookshop is giving our community the opportunity to engage with such an amazing author, shining the spotlight on this talented writer right here in Columbus.

The owner, Janine, is bringing magic to Upper Arlington. She and her team are offering a diverse selection of books that will serve as what Rudine Sims Bishop calls “windows, mirrors, and sliding glass doors” for everyone who comes in. They are providing a warm and welcoming environment where people of all ages can sit, read, think, and talk.

I am a believer that books, as well as thoughtful discussion, can create positive change. This bookshop provides a space for both to happen. We are so lucky to have this beautiful...