Kaleidoscope Kids' Books

Kaleidoscope Kids’ Books carries a wide variety of books for children of all ages. “Usually,” says co-owner Kim Ferguson, “we have one copy of each book on the shelf.”

Their collection of books is very well rounded, just like the interests of the owners: “we read from a lot of different areas and genres...we each have our preferences.”

Trends in literature are always changing. When the store was first opened, there was high demand for board books.

Now it’s the teen shelf that’s most popular: “The teen section has been very active lately. Teen readers come in on their own. They have money to spend.” But teens aren’t the only ones who love Young Adult fiction. Kaleidoscope’s “Bookclub for Adults Who Read Kids’ Books” is also very popular. “Adults who like a lot of action in their books love YA fiction,” says Kim.

The store also carries a selection of parenting books and resources for teachers. And just recently they added two shelves of books for grownups, due to popular demand.

Some kids know exactly what they want and call to reserve books. Other times, explains Kim, it’s “like being a detective.” The wonderful staff is always willing to take some time to consult and make recommendations.

Kaleidoscope, which also features local and Canadian authors, is truly a community bookstore. They participate in all kinds of local events, especially those run by the library like “Teen Author Week.” They support their community, and receive the same support in return. “People know us,” says Kim. “And people in this community support independent stores.”