Laurel Bookstore

Laurel Book Store

Oakland, CA

Luan Stauss, the owner of Laurel Book Store, started her business to build community. She said, “We truly want to be ‘Your Neighborhood Bookstore in Downtown Oakland.’” They chose their tagline, and their customer service focus carefully, so that you’ll want to keep coming back.

Laurel Book Store opened thirteen years ago with support from Main Street Launch (then OBDC), so when Luan Stauss was ready to move her business from the Laurel District to Downtown Oakland, Main Street Launch was the natural fit for her expansion support.

When you walk into Laurel Book Store at 1425 Broadway in downtown Oakland, you immediately feel a sense of excitement. From the view of City Hall out the window to the carefully constructed book displays, it’s no wonder that so many of Laurel Book Store’s customers say “we’re so glad you’re here.”

From “Indie First,” where guest authors act as book sellers, to children’s events, and the Frequent Buyer program, Laurel Book Store is a successful business in a new space downtown.

Laurel Book Store is the result of community partnerships. Luan Stauss was able to get matching funds from the City of Oakland for capital improvements and a great deal on rent, as well as a $120,000 loan from Main Street Launch to support her move downtown. In addition, she ran a successful Indiegogo campaign that provided $32,000 of community supported funds to her business.

You can join the Laurel Book Store community by attending an event or just popping by to browse. Don’t forget to tell them you’re glad they’re in the neighborhood!