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September/October 2009 Community Spotlight
Tea Party Bookshop

by JoAnne Kolher

The historical Boston Tea Party of 1773 inspired JoAnne Kolher, owner of Tea Party Bookshop in Salem, because it was one of the first times Americans rose up to protest corporate control of buying choices. Tea Party Bookshop is a strong advocate of environmental responsibility, fair trade practices and supporting the local economy.

With the changing economy, Kolher says it's been a tough environment for independent bookstores. "We are all about being independent and we are about promoting progressive thinking, sustainable thinking and spiritual thinking. We really encourage people to look at their personal growth and become aware of how they fit into the whole planet. We do that in any way we can."

Whether you're looking for a great choice for your book group, gardening guides, alternative energy how-to's or beautifully illustrated picture books for kids, you'll find many choices at Tea Party Bookshop. It's a general interest bookstore with a green living and metaphysical twist.

Kolher has always loved books, and even played bookstore when she was five years old. So it wasn't a surprise when she opened Tea Party Bookshop in 2008.

"I really wanted to create a space where people felt safe to come in, no matter where they were in life, no matter what their needs or beliefs were. People with questions can come in and at least get a start on those answers," she says.

Inquisitive customers also can find answers at the bookshop's many workshops and events. On Sept. 11, meet Patrick Carman, best-selling author of The Land of Elyon series for young readers. On Sept. 22, Tami Kent, the award-winning author of Wild Feminine, shares how women can tap into the root power of the feminine body. Get ready for ghoulish fun on Oct. 29 when families are invited to wear costumes for a night of bone chilling stories.

From meditation classes to health fairs, handcrafted jewelry to candles, and Pagan supplies to yoga cushions, Tea Party Bookshop is the community meeting place in Salem. Visit www.teapartybookshop.com.