Union Street Bookstore Opens Doors to Customers, Writers and Artists

A new business has opened its doors in the 'Boro and its owner Kim Ward Storch is ready to sell the good, bad and ugly books to customers out of her new Union Street store, Ugly Dog Books.

As Borders was shutting down its stores, Storch was putting the last details on her new bookstore. And now, the dream of owning her own store has become a reality.

She briefly questioned whether it was a good idea, but quickly resolved to make the store more than just a place to buy a book.

"I wanted to create a place where writers could come and be inspired and take classes as well as provide an opportunity to give back," she said.

One aspect that makes The Ugly Dog different is its connection to the needs of the community. Storch has made a commitment to support three local charities.

With each purchase of a hardcover book for $8, the customer will be able to choose who receives $4 of their purchase by placing a token in one of the fish bowls in "Drew's Room."

The charity room was inspired by her dad, Drew, who started the. Storch recalled going with her father to the pantry and meeting the families that it served. It changed her life and her outlook on the homeless. The and will remain as the two permanent choices with one that will change monthly.

Now through October 31, 2011 the third option will be the Lynn Catherine Goodchild Memorial Fund at the . Donations are always accepted above the $4 book donation.

Storch's plan is that Ugly Dog Books, becomes a place for local writers to have a place to sell their books. "Books will always have a place in the hands of a reader, there is just something about the feel of the book that can't be replace by a digital copy," she said.

Digging through the shelves you will find a collection of gently used paperback books for $4, children's books priced between $1 and $4. 

The community is encouraged to help build Storch's collection of books and receive a credit for shopping for used paperback books in the store.

Along with supporting local writers, the store also supports local artists. In fact,  during the month of September, products from Knitting by Corrinne Cunningham, local artist Paul Pickering, Jewelery by Donna Moreau-Hopkins and personalized pet portraits painted by Denise Pelissey will be featured in the store.

Ugly Dog Books will have its official grand opening on October 8.