3 days ago
Tomorrow Bookstore in Indianapolis is home to translated books and author pop-ups
Tomorrow Bookstore in Indianapolis is home to translated books and author pop-ups
Independent bookstores are the heartbeats of their communities. They provide culture and community, generate local jobs and sales tax revenue, promote literacy and education, champion and center diverse and new authors, connect readers to books in a personal and authentic way, and actively support the right to read and access to books in their communities.
Each week we profile an independent bookstore, sharing what makes each one special and getting their expert and unique book recommendations.
This week we have co-founder Jake Budler of Tomorrow Bookstore in Indianapolis, Indiana.
What's your store's story?
Tomorrow Bookstore is an independent, general interest bookstore on Indianapolis's premier retail corridor. Founded by Julia Breakey and Jake Budler, Tomorrow is a majority woman-owned bookstore focused on human-centric global stories. The store opened in April 2023 to fill a gap – there were no independent bookstores in downtown Indianapolis.
What makes your independent bookstore unique?
By far and away, our community's feedback is about the quality of selection. Despite being a small store (about 700 square feet of selling space), Julia focuses on a diverse, global selection of high-quality and lesser-known titles. In just one year, we have sold titles from authors from over 75 countries.
What's your favorite section in your store?
Our favorite permanent section is our table dedicated to works in translation. In keeping with our goal of high-quality and lesser-known stories, we focus on curating a table of translated works from around the globe. It is one of our only permanent displays.
What book do you love to recommend to customers and why?
"Before the Coffee Gets Cold" by Toshikazu Kawaguchi is a gorgeous tale with everything: time-travel, a cafe in Tokyo, lyrical and magical prose and beautiful lessons.
What book do you think deserves more attention and why?
"Hell If We Don't Change Our Ways" by Brittany Means is one of our team's favorite reads of 2023 and one of the best, most human and powerful memoirs that we read. Means grew up here in Indiana, and we love supporting talented local writers.
Why is shopping at local, independent bookstores important?
Bookstores are not simply retail stores. They are inherently community-based organizations that provide new experiences, information and spaces. They ultimately reflect society and humanity at large.
What are some of your store's events, programs, or partnerships coming up that you would like to share?
Tomorrow Bookstore hosts a variety of literary, art and community events, including four book clubs, a weekly local author pop-up and more. They focus on partnering with other independent businesses and non-profits across Indianapolis. In June, we are hosting events like an independent publisher pop-up with Two Dollar Radio from Ohio and a live painting and piano concert event with Pocket Vinyl.
