Taylor Books - Charleston

I've been visiting, and recommending, Taylor Books for a long as I can remember. Hope I get to enjoy this business until I pass.

Books were shelved and signed to help you find a new book you would like. Great selection of regional authors, regional fiction and non fiction, relating to Appalachia, coal mining, labor relations, border state history, etc. Lovely, friendly knowledgeable staff. Great quiche and pie at cafe.

This place is so cool. Love the old architecture and their use of the space in general. Great spot to visit if you're in the area.

I came here once before during Poetry Out Loud, which proved to be a fantastic experience. Therefore, stumbling across Taylor Books again by complete accident while on a walk brought me great joy! The way the store is set up, in addition to all of their products, is the coolest! We love an arts and queer-supportive space, alongside having a little bit of something for everyone! After all, it was the first time both my partner and roommate checked this place out. Sure enough, both of them found something of interest. The roomie took advantage of their used book program, and while my partner isn't a reader, they found cute stickers they were in love with! As for me, I was happy to snag up a sticker and a blind date with a book! I'm really hoping to bring some of my other friends in for a visit when they come in. I know they'll love it just as much as I do!

It was Festivall and I attended 2 events on 2 different days, both sponsored by the Humanities Council. Both the journalists panel hosted by WV Poet Lauriate Marc Harshman. It was very informative and discussed societal significant topics. The second was the author of The Singing Spruce, a young anthropologist who spoke about his internship apprenticeship with 2 Appalachian Luther's, one the maker of violins, the other the maker of guitars. The Singing Spruce is the Red Spruce tone wood that is cut from radial thin slices of native Spruce. It vibrates with a tone all its own and is used for tops of guitars and gives them their special sound. It was very interesting and well presented. Host Jenny, WV Folklorist who works at the Humanities Council, was knowledgeable and added to the discussion. Totally enjoyed and appreciated!