In Overland Park, Kansas, you’ll find a unique retailer that’s setting trends and opening doors. Monarch Books & Gifts, the first independent bookstore in the state, founded by mom, entrepreneur, major bookworm, and Boston-native Christin Young.

The journey of Monarch Books & Gifts began with a profound understanding of the community’s needs, explains publicist, Chandler Rawson who, in my opinion, is a heartfelt advocate of the bookstore not to mention a gifted storyteller. She goes on to share that Christin, finding no independent bookstores in the area, decided to create a space that not only catered to literary enthusiasts, but supported her community’s teachers.

“Christin wanted to curate an in-store experience that felt welcoming and inclusive, where the people of Kansas City could explore literature that resonated with them.” After a location transition, the owner changed store names from “The Green Door Book Shoppe” to “Monarch Books & Gifts,” but never wavered from her mission to provide a welcoming space which houses “a little something for everyone” within its emerald walls.

Chandler shares her thoughts about the experience of Monarch in an eloquent way. “When one enters Monarch Books & Gifts to attend an event, purchase a drink, or simply to peruse the shelves they are welcomed by a cacophony of colors, scents, and warmth,” she says. “The soothing green tones– reminiscent of nature– and the inviting new book and freshly-made coffee scents permeating the air evokes feelings of relaxation and homecoming. Whether you are fluttering in to purchase an eighteenth-century classic novel, a children’s story, a raunchy card, or a literary themed-coffee you are affectionately enfolded by the green-tipped wings of Monarch Books & Gifts.”

In search of such respite myself, I’ve experienced few places as inviting as this destination.

As a book lover and host of Books Uplift, it’s easy to see why this bookstore is so successful—their success is all about creating a cozy environment, filled with treasures and inviting to all. Right up my alley. And hooray, it’s the first woman owned and operated independent bookstore, gift and coffee shop in Overland Park, Kansas. But its special qualities also extend to the passion and enthusiasm of the team members.

“My favorite thing about the store is absolutely the community that it garners,” shares store manager, Eve Ward. Her love for the store is infectious in the way she encourages customers to appreciate how reading fosters personal happiness, growth, and community. “I love talking with people. I love recommending books. Everything about working here is fun.”

But it’s not just a business at Monarch Books & Gifts, it’s a home for teachers, authors, students, and anyone who enjoys a little food and fun.

“Alongside offering a carefully curated selection of merchandise and circulating titles, Monarch Books & Gifts offers teacher registries and regularly hosts profit-shares with schools in the surrounding area,” says Chandler. “The selection of gift products carried by the store serves as a conduit of connection not only between teachers and students, but between friends, family members, co-workers, and more. The gift aspect of this independent bookstore and coffee shop allows for all people—not just the literary inclined—an outlet to express their personal affections, humor, and appreciation to others.”

Winners of the “Best of KC” series in the “Place to buy a Gift” category and second place in the “Specialty Store” Monarch Books & Gifts continues to draw new customers looking for fun and inviting events. They host three book clubs, sleepovers, midnight release parties, author expos, children’s reading circles, dinners with authors, and seasonal reading programs with special guest appearances—like The Grinch! For visitors to the Kansas City area, Monarch Books & Gifts has become a destination spot, providing a little something of everything from everyone.

“Be it a laugh, a literary inspired coffee, a book, a piece of jewelry, a notebook, candy—you name it—we have it especially for you,” says Chandler. And speaking of treats, they have an uber popular and growing literary themed coffee menu! “My all-time fav menu item is the Winnie-the-Pooh, honey latte,” says Chandler.

“We at the store say that Monarch Books & Gifts is a third place,” says Chandler. “You have your home, your place of work and your ‘third place:’ the place you go which is distraction-less, yet entertaining, relaxing, yet jubilant, a place that is both cup-filling and diluting. After five years of facilitating and sharing in the community’s laughter, reading, sipping, and joy, Monarch Books & Gifts is proud to be considered the ‘third place’ for many of its cherished patrons and friends.”

To learn more and plan your visit to Monarch Books & Gifts check out their beautiful website.

Insight and images courtesy of Chandler Rawson.