If you see us looking a little frazzled over the next week—or possibly staring at a computer screen like it has personally betrayed us—there’s a reason: Main Street Reads is making some BIG behind-the-scenes changes!
We’re switching and upgrading several of the systems that keep our little bookstore humming, including our point-of-sale system, rewards program, website, introducing new membership program and more.
And here’s the important part: it’s all going to be GREAT for you.
These changes will ultimately mean a smoother shopping experience, an easier and more rewarding rewards program, better membership benefits, a more useful website, and systems that work together much better than they do today.
Getting from here to there, however? Well… apparently the technology fairies don’t just arrive overnight and make everything magically work. Who knew?!
So we’re asking for a little patience and grace over the next week while we get everything moved, connected, tested, fixed, re-tested…and occasionally wonder why we ever thought this was a good idea. 😂
There may be a few hiccups. Something might take us an extra minute at checkout. We may need to look something up the old-fashioned way. And if you happen to see one of us pulling our hair out behind the counter, now you know why.
But please know that we’re working through it—and we’re incredibly excited about what’s on the other side.
Why We’re Doing It
Main Street Reads has grown a LOT since we first opened our doors seven years ago, and with that growth comes the need for better systems that can grow right along with us.
We want it to be easier for you to shop, earn rewards, use your benefits, find books and events, and stay connected with everything happening at Main Street Reads. These changes are a big step toward making that happen.
And while computers, databases and point-of-sale systems may be changing, the most important things aren’t: We’re still your neighborhood bookstore. We’re still here to help you find your next great read. And our mission is ALWAYS that everyone leaves happier than when they walked in.
So bear with us through the growing pains this month. We promise we’re working hard to get it right—and we think you’re going to LOVE where we’re headed.
Thanks, as always, for growing right along with us. Even when it’s a little messy... sigh.
— Your Shelf Care Crew
Meanwhile: Still Plenty of August Ahead!
We’re only halfway through August, and there’s lots more bookish fun still to come — author visits, book clubs, quiet reading, Third Thursday and more. And stay tuned: next week we’ll be sharing some BIG September announcements!
TODAY, August 16: Meet the Author — Lindy Keane Carter!
2:30–4:00 p.m. | Main Street Reads
Let’s try this again — with better weather! Join us this afternoon to meet Lindy Keane Carter, author of The Irish Visitor. Come say hello, talk books and Southern historical fiction, and get your copy signed!
Monday, August 17: Adventures in Reading Kids Club
5:30–6:30 p.m. | Main Street Reads
Our young readers take on The Trouble with Heroes by Kate Messner! Adventures in Reading is free and open to all, and the featured book is 10% off for book club.
Tuesday, August 18: A Double-Header!
Peaceful Mornings: Quiet Reading Club | 8:00–10:00 a.m.
Start the day the peaceful way: coffee, books and two blissfully quiet hours of reading at Main Street Reads.
Kiss & Tell Romance Book Club | 6:30–8:00 p.m.
Then things heat up that evening with Rules for the Summer by Meghan Quinn. Our book clubs are free and open to all — we supply the treats, you bring the scintillating conversation!
Thursday, August 20: Third Thursday — Staying Cool in Summerville
5:30–8:00 p.m. | Downtown Summerville
Spend the evening downtown with live music, vendors, extended hours at your favorite local businesses and plenty of reasons to stroll Main Street. Come see us while you’re out and about!
Tuesday, August 25: Books & Banter
6:30–8:00 p.m. | Main Street Reads
Our general fiction club gathers to discuss Sing Down the Moon by Robert Gwaltney. If you love discovering terrific new fiction and talking about books with fellow readers, come join us!
Sunday, August 30: Timrod Author Series — Susan Zurenda
3:00–5:00 p.m. | Timrod Library
We’ll close out the month with the Timrod Author Series featuring award-winning novelist Susan Zurenda and No Way Out but Through. Join us at Summerville’s beautiful Timrod Library for a wonderful literary afternoon.
And then…September!
We’re not spilling the beans quite yet, but watch for some BIG September announcements next week. (HINT: Think Sweet Tea Festival!) ‘Til then, see you on Main Street!