Books N Things: A Harlingen Staple with a Community Mission
As the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) navigates through ongoing economic and social challenges, local businesses continue to play a pivotal role in maintaining community resilience and spirit. At the heart of Harlingen, Books N Things—a quaint bookstore with a nearly four-decade legacy—embodies this dedication by offering more than just books. In the latest installment of our “Made in the 956” series, we delve into how this beloved establishment continues to impact and enrich the lives of Valley residents.
A Storied History and Commitment to Diversity in Literature
Books N Things has become a cornerstone of Harlingen’s cultural landscape, doubling its collection to approximately 100,000 books over the past 39 years. Established in the mid-1970s, the store has undergone ownership changes but has steadfastly adhered to its mission of providing a wide array of genres from mystery and romance to western novels and beyond. Cathy Gomez, the store’s manager since 1986, speaks passionately about her work. “To me, books open up a whole new world. We’ve grown significantly while staying true to our roots. The community here likes to hold a book in their hands, and that’s something we still offer.”
Gomez emphasizes the store’s continued emphasis on providing books for everyone in the RGV, even in the digital age. While e-books and online platforms have certainly transformed reading habits, she notes that local customers frequent the store to pick up the latest bestseller or discover a hidden gem. The commitment to diversity in literature has kept both foot traffic and community interest alive.
Embracing a Community-Focused Business Model
Books N Things stands out for its community-centered business model, encouraging patrons not only to buy but also trade or donate books. “The majority of our books have been traded over the years, but we’ve also received a large number of donated books,” Gomez explains. This model fosters a circular economy of literature within the Valley, creating avenues for readers from varying backgrounds to participate and benefit.
Books not sold or traded find new life through donations to local libraries like the La Feria Public Library, ensuring broader access to quality literature across the region. The model also features Gomez’s personal touch, as some of her arts and crafts are available for purchase, adding a unique, local flair to the shopping experience.
Upholding a Cultural Hub Amidst Contemporary Challenges
The past few years have been challenging for businesses everywhere, with the COVID-19 pandemic altering consumer behaviors and economic landscapes. Despite these hurdles, Books N Things has remained resilient, illustrating the enduring value of regional entrepreneurship. “People still value that sense of comfort a physical book provides,” Gomez affirms. As RGV news outlets continue to highlight, supporting local businesses like Books N Things sustains not only economic vitality but also strengthens community identity.
Local Harlingen resident Carlos Ruiz attests to the store’s impact, noting, “It’s more than a place to buy books; it’s a community hub. Supporting Cathy and her store means supporting Harlingen’s cultural spirit.”
Building Community Resilience in South Texas
Presenting a collective effort, businesses such as Books N Things illuminate the potential for community resilience and growth despite socioeconomic challenges. They provide a model of adaptability and localized care, fundamental elements for sustaining the spirit of the Valley.
Looking towards the future, the success and endurance of such institutions may inspire new generations of RGV entrepreneurs, urging them to root their ventures in community priorities and regional distinctiveness. As Books N Things continues to grow, encouraging literary discovery among its patrons, it underscores that culture and commerce need not be mutually exclusive but can coexist to fortify a community’s foundation.
The Next Chapter
The model of community-focused engagement, paired with entrepreneurial perseverance, offers a roadmap not just for South Texas but for any region facing similar challenges. Books N Things remains a testament to how businesses rooted in community interest can sustain and flourish even amid changing times.
For Valley residents interested in becoming part of this enduring community narrative, Books N Things welcomes all to participate in their buy-trade-donate programs. Through combined efforts, this Harlingen staple continues its mission to enrich lives and expand horizons—one book at a time.
Valley residents can visit Books N Things at [insert address here] and participate in their unique offerings. For more information, call [insert phone number here] or visit their website at [insert website link here].
As we spotlight the enduring impact of places like Books N Things through our “Made in the 956” series, we’re reminded of the joys and benefits that come from supporting local endeavors that enrich the cultural and communal fabric of the RGV.
