Have you checked out the new bookstore in downtown Three Lakes yet? Laura Lowry opened Mind Chimes Bookshop in October of 2019. We sat down with Laura not too long ago to find out more about her and her new business venture.
Laura is trained in medicine as a pediatrician and also was an anatomy and physiology instructor at Nicolet College. Three Lakes has been her home for about ten years; and like many of us, Laura was drawn to the town because of the beauty of the lakes and the natural environment. When asked what inspired her to change careers, Laura lit up saying, “Every small town needs a bookstore – it’s a portal to the rest of the country and even the world.” Laura spent a year researching the idea, followed by months of structural and cosmetic renovations on the 100-year-old building that is now home to Mind Chimes.
The first thing you notice when stepping into the bookstore is that it’s flooded with natural light. The surroundings are somehow both classic and contemporary, and you feel equally welcome to strike up a lively conversation or retreat to a quiet corner.
Laura’s goal is to create a “third space”, a place for everyone – tourists, year-round residents, busy young families, or those who are retired – to find inspiration and conversation. With our homes being first, and our work or school being second, we all need another place – a third space – to gather together, meet a friend, or enjoy a book and a cup of tea. Having spaces like this available to a community contributes to our quality of life.
Plans for the future include offering a meeting place for book clubs, story hours for children (ask about the secret room behind the wardrobe!) and opportunities for adults to participate in the craft of oral storytelling as well. Laura will be gearing up for the busy summer season by building inventory, increasing business hours, looking for part-time employees – people who are readers and who are willing to share their love of books with others.
Be sure to stop in to Mind Chimes Bookshop soon – meet Laura, take in this gem of a store, browse the wide selection and bring home a few new favorite books. Check out their website here.
Just like other places around town. there are a few adjustments being made this summer. Here is what you can expect at the bookshop:
“There are a few changes at the Bookshop. Out of respect for your health, I will be wearing a mask. I ask customers to consider extending that gesture to me and other shoppers as well. I am offering private shopping appointments between 9AM and 10AM on days the bookshop is open. A minimum purchase of a $50 gift certificate is required. Call 715-490-0324. Please practice physical distancing in the bookshop, and wait a few moments on the deck if it appears full. Thank you!”
