Commerce Street Books — in business since June 28 — hopes to pull its customers both closer to literature and closer to one another. The independent bookstore was founded by Class of 2015 alumnus Philip Lorish, who hopes to support what he calls the “practice of reading” in the Charlottesville community.
“We’re creating value for a community and for folks who want to have an in person experience,” Lorish said.
According to the website, Commerce Street Books is “the modern bookshop Charlottesville deserves.” The store offers shopping and direct communication online as well as membership subscriptions for discounts and exclusive events. The membership model is also meant to create cohesive relationships among customers as Commerce Street rolls out occasional members-only programming…