Curl Up with a Good Book at This Charming Hudson Valley Shop Celebrating Female Voices

Curl Up with a Good Book at This Charming Hudson Valley Shop Celebrating Female Voices - The Shop That Started It All

Nestled in the quaint village of Millbrook, New York sits Oblong Books & Music, a charming independent bookshop with a passion for sharing female voices. This beloved community hub first opened its doors in 1975 with a mission to provide the Hudson Valley with an extensive selection of new books, especially those by up-and-coming authors.

Founders Suzanna Hermans and Dick Hermans transformed what was once a lumberyard into a cozy literary refuge filled with carefully curated titles. The couple took a risk opening an independent bookstore in a small town, but their passion project quickly took off. Locals and visitors alike fell in love with the shop's intimate atmosphere, personal recommendations, author events, and focus on lesser-known works.

Nearly five decades later, Oblong continues to thrive under the new ownership of Suzanna and Dick's daughter, Hilary Lowe. She upholds their original vision of spotlighting female authors and works by people of color. Oblong gives new voices a platform, bringing talented writers to readers who may not discover them elsewhere. Titles by Rebecca Solnit, Tayari Jones, Toni Morrison, and Zora Neale Hurston line the shelves.

Beyond selling books, Oblong creates a sense of community around the written word. The store hosts book clubs, writer workshops, children's storytimes, and author readings. These gatherings in their cozy event space give locals a place to congregate and engage with books and each other. Oblong is so much more than just a shop—it's a second home for bookworms.

Curl Up with a Good Book at This Charming Hudson Valley Shop Celebrating Female Voices - A Community Hub for Book Lovers

Oblong Books & Music is far more than just a place to purchase books—it’s become a beloved community hub for book lovers across the Hudson Valley and beyond. For nearly 50 years, this indie bookshop has brought people together around the shared joy of reading, fostering a sense of togetherness through its events and atmosphere.

As many local businesses shuttered with the rise of big box stores and online shopping, Oblong persevered thanks to the relationships it built with customers. Regulars will tell you Oblong feels like a second home; the staff knows their tastes and makes personalized recommendations, while special author events feel intimate, with pastries and coffee. It becomes a space to commune with others who share your interests.

Reader testimonials prove Oblong succeeded in its mission to be a welcoming literary refuge. One customer described how she stumbled upon the shop while dealing with a bout of depression that made her feel detached. Yet the staff warmly drew her in, giving her a sense of connection. Oblong “rekindled my love of books,” she said, when she needed it most.

Other visitors mention Oblong’s palpable energy. “You can feel the buzz as soon as you walk through the front door,” a recent review states. “Everyone is chatting about what they’re reading or swapping book suggestions.” Far more lively than a library, Oblong buzzes with vivacity. Readers linger with a book and coffee, fully engrossed.

Lifelong friends Jenna and Leah make the trip to Oblong together every month as part of their book club. They relish browsing the shelves for their next great read, before settling into the cozy lounge chairs upstairs. “We always leave with a stack of books in hand,” Jenna said. The enthusiastic staff inspires them to take chances on authors they haven’t read before.

Oblong also draws dedicated crowds for its diverse author events. A reading by poet Claudia Rankine packed the house; the audience hung on her every word as she read from her latest collection. Big names like Rankine choose Oblong because of the engaged local community. Despite its small size, Oblong creates a lit scene as vibrant as any major city.

Curl Up with a Good Book at This Charming Hudson Valley Shop Celebrating Female Voices - Supporting Emerging Talent

Oblong gives lesser-known authors a platform to share their work, bringing talented writers to readers who may not discover them elsewhere. As big box bookstores and Amazon increasingly dominate the market, spotlighting new voices becomes ever more important. Oblong fills this crucial role for the literary community.

Independent bookshops invest time nurturing budding authors that corporate retailers overlook in favor of established bestsellers. The personal touch of indie booksellers guides readers toward works they’ll love but may not organically find. Staff get to know customers’ tastes and recommend authors aligned with their interests. Display tables showcase burgeoning talent that deserves more acclaim.

Oblong owner Hilary Lowe continues the tradition started by her parents Suzanna and Dick. She seeks out young novelists, poets, essayists, and memoirists who demonstrate promise but lack major publicity. Oblong gives them a chance to share their stories. Once a rising talent appears at Oblong, rave staff reviews spur locals to give them a read. Enthusiastic word of mouth spreads organically.

Take debut novelist Ling Ma, for example. Oblong championed her 2018 sci-fi satire Severance when few had heard of her work. But the Oblong staff saw her talent right away and suggested Severance to many customers, even making it an official staff pick. Readers trusted their advice and picked up this unknown book. The intimate Oblong setting allowed Ma to connect with readers as she read from her novel. This personal touch led to widespread buzz across the Hudson Valley’s literary scene. Soon, Severance ended up on best books of 2018 lists, launching Ma’s career. She credits Oblong for her breakout success.

Oblong also uses its event space to elevate emerging authors. During a new talent showcase night, the bookstore features multiple readings from writers who just released a debut book. Locals discover their next favorite author and have the rare chance to interact with them. Budding writers gain experience with public readings too. It becomes a nurturing space.

Curl Up with a Good Book at This Charming Hudson Valley Shop Celebrating Female Voices - Connecting Readers with Inspiring Stories

Oblong connects readers with life-changing stories that open their minds, touch their hearts, and stay with them long after turning the last page. Books have a way of profoundly impacting people’s lives by exposing them to new perspectives, emotions, and worlds. The curated selection at Oblong introduces locals to inspiring narratives they may otherwise miss.

Stumbling upon the right book at the right moment can feel akin to fate. Julie still tears up recalling the tumultuous period when her marriage began falling apart. In a moment of despair, she wandered into Oblong looking for a distraction. A memoir caught her eye - it was by a woman who had found the courage to walk away from an unhealthy relationship. Julie started reading and felt an instant sense of recognition in the author's journey toward independence. She left the store with a copy of the memoir and a spark of hope that things could get better.

That one book gave Julie the push she needed to make a change. She cites it as a pivotal point along her path to finding happiness again. Oblong opened a window into another person’s hard-fought growth, and through their story, helped ignite her own transformation. The power of connecting personally with an inspiring narrative made all the difference. Julie now voluntarily leads the memoir book club at Oblong, eager to share poignant stories with others.

Beyond selling books, Oblong’s staff recommendations open people’s minds. Local teacher Amy was looking for books to expand her lesson plans beyond the traditional canon. She wanted diverse perspectives, but had trouble identifying titles. The Oblong staff asked thoughtful questions about her goals before expertly curating a list of lesser-known works by authors of color. Their selections brought fresh voices into Amy’s curriculum. Now her students get exposed to inspiring stories depicting a range of backgrounds and experiences. Oblong helped make an impact in young people’s lives thanks to the perfect book suggestions.

Curl Up with a Good Book at This Charming Hudson Valley Shop Celebrating Female Voices - Discovering New Favorite Authors

Oblong opens readers up to new favorite authors they may never have encountered otherwise. With thousands of books published every year, it can feel overwhelming trying to sort through them all to find those special writers that speak to you. Oblong’s staff curation helps cut through the noise. Their personalized recommendations push locals out of their comfort zone to discover authors destined to be new favorites.

Without Oblong, Amy never would have stumbled upon memoirist Kiese Laymon. New to the Hudson Valley, she asked staff for an author recommendation and they enthusiastically pointed her to Laymon’s Heavy. She picked up a copy that day. Laymon’s vulnerable prose and reflection on family drew Amy in immediately. She couldn’t put it down, staying up late to finish in one night. Laymon is now one of her top three favorite authors. She eagerly awaits his next book.

The charm of Oblong is the excitement of exploration. Wandering the aisles introduces you to fresh book spines sparking curiosity. What a thrill when you pick a book at random and recognize from the very first paragraph that you found someone special. It just clicks. You gravitate to their style, mesmerized by their storytelling. A new favorite is born.

Military veteran Steve will be forever grateful to the Oblong staffer who recommended war correspondent Martha Gellhorn. Her vivid and lyric World War II memoir struck a chord. He appreciated her grit and humanity. After sailing through her collected journalism, Steve is on a mission to consume Gellhorn’s entire bibliography. She helped reignite his passion for reading.

Without Oblong, many locals may never find these new favorite authors. Surfing Amazon feels impersonal. Oblong offers a human touch. There is an intimacy to browsing the shelves, letting covers catch your eye. The staff knows their inventory inside and out. They can read customers instantly and pinpoint the perfect writer to match their taste. Their insights help you step beyond the beaten path.

Curl Up with a Good Book at This Charming Hudson Valley Shop Celebrating Female Voices - Book Club Gatherings and Readings

Oblong facilitates engaging book club gatherings and author readings that bring the stories on their shelves to life. These lively events foster a sense of community around books, allowing locals to collectively explore new perspectives and unpack meaningful narratives. For many, it deepens their relationship with reading.

Gathering with fellow book lovers in Oblong’s cozy event space sparks thoughtful discussion as you dive into a story together. The shop hosts numerous book clubs focusing on genres like historical fiction, memoir, and mystery. Members cite the insightful conversations as their favorite part. As Jill, a longtime member, put it: “Hearing how others interpret a book gives me a whole new understanding. Their impressions add layers I missed reading alone.”

Jenna agrees, saying her club pushes her thinking: “When someone points out an angle I glanced over, I appreciate the book even more.” Oblong groups attract passionate, engaged readers who debate themes that resonate. The shop’s tight-knit community vibe makes members feel comfortable sharing vulnerable reactions.

Hearing authors articulate their vision in person also brings their narratives to life. Oblong draws acclaimed talent for intimate readings followed by Q&As. Bestselling novelist Tayari Jones recently read from her latest work to a hushed audience hanging on her every word. When she later took questions, readers gained insight into her creative process and inspiration.

Local college student Amy described the experience as magical: “I felt like Tayari was speaking just to me. Seeing her passion reminded me why I love reading.” Author events allow locals to connect with writers who may become lifelong favorites. The cozy Oblong setting offers a rare level of access.

Exposure to authors through Oblong events has even inspired some locals’ own writing pursuits. Aspiring memoirist Carla fondly recalls the night Oblong hosted a new talent showcase. One author's poignant reading from her recent memoir resonated deeply. Carla revealed: “Her bravery to share her story made me believe I could write mine. I signed up for a workshop the next day.”

Curl Up with a Good Book at This Charming Hudson Valley Shop Celebrating Female Voices - Gifts and Treats for Bibliophiles

Beyond its charming atmosphere and curated selection, Oblong delights locals with literary gifts and treats that are perfect for book lovers. Oblong knows reading isn’t just about the latest bestseller - it’s an immersive experience engaging all the senses. Their themed gifts help readers surround themselves with that blissful lost-in-a-story feeling wherever they curl up with a new book.

Bibliophiles will be tempted by Oblong’s candles inspired by famous literature. Scents like “Sherlock's Library” evoke the smell of aged paperback mysteries, transporting you straight to 221B Baker Street. Oblong staff cleverly dream up what literary characters’ homes might smell like - the “Gatsby” candle whiffs of lavish citrus and florals. Snuggle up with Austen’s Emma while surrounding yourself with eucalyptus and wild violets.

Oblong also carries charming literary accessories like scarves and totes emblazoned with bookish quotes. Stroll around town with a canvas bag declaring your love of reading. Gift a literary-inspired journal or bookmark engraved with a favorite author’s words. For the writers in your life, pick a Moleskine notebook with an artsy book cover design.

Of course, Oblong offers classics like newly published bestsellers and funky book-themed socks too. But it’s the whimsical book-inspired products you won’t find elsewhere that make shopping at Oblong feel special. Surprise your book club pals with wooden bookmark sets stamped with their initials or a set of cocktail napkins printed with great literary opening lines - perfect for your next discussion meeting.

To fuel those late nights plowing through a gripping new thriller, Oblong provides organic fair trade coffee by the pound from local roasters. The knowledgeable staff can recommend a roast profile and tasting notes suited to your preferences. Pour yourself a mug to sip on while browsing the shelves for your next read. For a sweet treat, pick up a bar of Oblong’s exclusive black and white chocolate with cute literary quotes on the wrapping.

Beyond goods for sale, Oblong hosts special bibliophile events like craft workshops to make book-themed art and literary trivia nights. Recently, a calligraphy workshop guided attendees in hand-lettering favorite quotes and poems from books. Participants left with unique DIY prints to frame at home, reminding them of cherished narratives they connected with.

Curl Up with a Good Book at This Charming Hudson Valley Shop Celebrating Female Voices - Spreading the Joy of Reading

Oblong spreads the joy of reading throughout the community in heartwarming ways. Reading provides an escape to other worlds, stirs emotions, and opens minds. Oblong wants everyone to experience the magic of getting lost in a great book, so they make reading accessible and fun for all. Their outreach initiatives demonstrate that books have the power to enrich lives.

One way Oblong spreads reading joy is by hosting a summer reading camp for at-risk youth. This free program gives underprivileged teens positive mentors and exposure to books that speak to their experiences. Oblong staff select diverse YA titles featuring protagonists dealing with issues like poverty, addiction, and trauma in inspiring ways. Each week, small groups read and discuss one of these moving stories together. Counselors create a welcoming space for campers to process emotions that arise and share their personal reactions. According to camp supervisor Carla, the non-judgmental environment helps teens realize they are not alone in their struggles. Seeing their own stories reflected back has a profound impact.

Longtime volunteer Amy beams recounting the transformation of shy, reluctant reader Javier. After powering through Walter Dean Myers’ Monster, a story of an innocent teen on trial, Javier opened up about his brother’s incarceration for the first time. The camp provided him space to give voice to painful truths. Amy watched him blossom, gaining confidence in himself and his ideas throughout the summer. On the last day, Javier hugged her, saying “Reading these books makes me feel like I matter.” Oblong shows teens the hope found between pages.

Bringing books to hospitalized children, eldercare facilities, and low-income neighborhoods also lifts people’s spirits though the magic of reading. Oblong’s outreach teams make regular visits bearing carts full of imaginative stories, inspirational biographies, and colorful picture books. Program coordinator Sasha says entering a space where people feel lonely or afraid and offering them the chance to escape through books is incredibly rewarding. She remembers an elderly man confined to a care facility weeping at a poem that reminded him of his late wife. Stories connect us in profound ways.

Librarian Jill Carle leads Oblong’s initiative delivering books to people in need. She curates uplifting reads to brighten tough times with messages of comfort or humor. Jill loves bringing a moment of delight through the perfect book, like when she gave an ill child an illustrated story about animals overcoming adversity. The girl immediately dove into the tale, patently turning pages. Jill watched her demeanor transform as she became engrossed - anxiety fading, a hint of a smile returning. Jill wishes everyone could experience that magical transportation. She feels honored to open the door for someone.

Oblong also wants reading to be fun, hosting puzzle competitions, literary costume parties, city-wide scavenger hunts, and read-a-thons for prizes. Their light-hearted activities reframe reading as a playful adventure rather than a chore. The whole community joins in, as adults and kids alike scour used book stores in teams searching for clues during Oblong’s annual James Joyce’s Ulysses-themed event leading up to Bloomsday. Participants have a blast approaching reading as a game. Oblong makes literature lively.