Photo by Cornell Watson
For some, the ideal bookstore experience might mean scooping up a new weekend read. Others, like those who voted in our Readers’ Favorites poll, enjoy stumbling upon a unique gift or funny greeting card. But if you’re like most McIntyre’s Books customers, it’s all about snuggling into the Fearrington Village shop’s plush couch by the fire for a deep dive into a new mystery novel or piece of nonfiction. “It makes us so happy to hear people laughing when they discover something wandering around the shop,” says owner Keebe Fitch, who works with her team to curate a special experience for every visitor. “I love that I can still get lost wandering around the bookshop and that the space and merchandise still feel fresh to me,” Keebe adds. Current hot items include puzzles, Jellycat stuffed animals, art supplies and Chapel Hill Toffee. The children’s section is also very popular, with shelves and seating at the ideal height for little arms and legs, as Ryan Mulry and her son demonstrate. While the store currently operates at a limited capacity to ensure safety, virtual author events are still held over Zoom, and storytimes with Johanna “Banana” Albrecht are held every Tuesday and Friday at 10:30 a.m. on McIntyre’s Instagram.
