HamletHub thanks Fairfield County Bank for making our Why Small Businesses Matter series possible!
Why Small Businesses Matter
Shop small, do big things for your community
Why Small Businesses Matter puts a spotlight on the local merchants who donate their time, talent, goods, and services for the betterment of our community. The shop local movement spreads virally as local businesses who are “tagged” have the opportunity to share their story!
Meet Alice Hutchinson, owner of Byrd's Books.Why did you start your business?
We realized that Bethel didn't have a local independent bookstore and I had experience working in my mother's bookstore and in a corporate bookstore. We started on the second floor above Molten Java when Borders closed in 2011 and are now on Greenwood Ave.
What is your best-selling product/service?
Books (and greeting cards). Our most popular sections are Adult Fiction and Ages 9-12 Fiction. It inspires me how many kids are developing a love of reading.
How many local businesses do you use to support your business (products and services) and can you name them?
We get custom bookmarks and gift certificate printing from Lawlor Graphics, and partner with the Toy Room on many events, including July's Where's Waldo in Bethel.
Have you "reimagined" your small business?
During the pandemic, we became a warehouse, and now we are fully open and thrilled to offer author events in the store again. We do continue to offer virtual events with authors from around the country, which might not have happened if we had not all learned about Zoom in 2020.
Byrd's Books is located at 178 Greenwood Ave. in Bethel. Visit Byrd's Books online www.byrdsbooks.com and be sure to follow along on Facebook and Instagram.
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