Readers of Oak Park recently welcomed a new bookstore to 1047 Lake St. The Book Loft provides a wide selection of genres, from non-fiction to graphic novels, as well as board and card games. 

After seven months of preparation, owners Heather Nelson and Sophie Schauer Eldred executed their dreams successfully and opened their doors on Aug. 16.  

As a longtime reader and lover of Judy Blume’s books, Nelson was inspired to open up her own bookstore after attending a family event last October, which honored her mother-in-law for taking over the family bookstore of 35 years after the passing of her father-in-law. 

Wanting to pay tribute to her family, Nelson named The Book Loft after her family’s shop in Fernandina Beach, Florida. After being around her family’s bookstore for 30 years, Nelson noticed just how much of an impact it made on others and wanted to bring that same joy to people in her own community.

“Books help you explore something, escape something, learn something and discover something,” Nelson said. 

At the onset of the new year, Nelson shared her idea of opening a bookstore with Eldred, her friend of 22 years. Eldred was more than happy and willing to start the journey with her. 

“If this is something you really want to pursue, I would love to join you and help you make it come to fruition,” Nelson recalled Eldred saying.

As much as she loves books, Nelson didn’t initially aim to open a bookstore. “My dream always was to open a vintage candy store, because I knew it would be nostalgic for a lot of people, and who’s not happy in a candy store,” Nelson shared.

However, Nelson and Eldred said they have found joy in selling books to such an enthusiastic community. “The best dopamine hit we have ever had was opening the door the first time,”  Eldred said.

Nelson added, “The local community has been so welcoming, positive, reassuring, validating, you name it.”

The simplicity of the store’s design is meant to offer a sense of escapism for shoppers. “We are providing a beautiful environment for people to get lost in, to share their feelings about the books they had read and move on to a new book,” Eldred said. 

The variety that The Book Loft offers contributes to its welcoming atmosphere, according to Oak Park community member Allison Jalowiak. “I think it gives people a place to learn new things, and to meet new people,” Jalowiak said. 

The Book Loft is filled with a variety of books displayed neatly on sleek black shelves and display tables. A variety of games and puzzles for all ages are also available such as “The World of Bridgerton,” and “Not Today, Murder.” 

Categories of books are offered such as classics, history, young adult, fantasy, cooking, travel and many more. Some unique aspects of their store include a “Read Before You Watch” section and an extensive array of children’s books. 

Looking ahead to the future of The Book Loft, Eldred and Nelson said they hope the store continues to thrive.

 “I hope it becomes a flagship or destination for Oak Park on Lake Street, Nelson said. “I really hope it’s something that people see as an authentic experience.

“We want that kind of mentality of when they walk out, they want to share it with someone,” Nelson added.