What will we do for an Encore?

What will we do for an Encore?
by Chris Edwards

Filling the great void left by the closing of Encore Books at Hampden Centre last year, Crown Books celebrated its Grand Opening in grand style February 5, with signings by local authors, story times for children — with appearances by The Cat in the Hat and Winnie the Pooh — and live musical performances in the Hard Bean Cafe, the in-house coffeeshop, by Voxology, Tony Perry Three, and Once More Once.

According to manager Claire Merica, this “Super Crown,” with $2 million in inventory, is the largest in the Virginia-based chain. Formerly the manager of the Alexandria, Virginia Crown Books, Merica was excited about the challenge of managing the new store. The concept of the book superstore is relatively new; with many times more books in inventory than an average mall store, customers are far more likely to find what they want, instead of having to order it from a distributor. Crown Books is the only superstore in the Harrisburg area.

From left to right: Asst. Mgr. Michelle Hummer, Manager Clare Merica, Asst. Mgr. Kevin Meehan, and Asst. Mgr. Sherry Messimer.

Events Coordinator Deborah Hodges was busy scheduling activities for Crown’s Susquehanna Room, formerly Encore’s Music area. This room will be used for book signings and discussion groups, and is available for private and community meetings and parties. Currently scheduled are a Science Fiction discussion group to meet on the first Monday of the month, literary readings coordinated by poet Jack Veasey on the third Wednesday of the month, and Children’s Story times every Tuesday and Thursday. Contact Crown for times and details at 730-0440.