Open Door Book Store celebrates 40th anniversary

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) – A local bookstore is preparing to celebrate a big anniversary.

At a time when technology dominates the world, Christian bookstore Open Door has found a way to thrive in Terre Haute. Manager Steve Storey says the key to success over the past 40 years is providing a shopping experience that technology can’t match.

“It’s just great to come into a store and talk to someone,” Storey said. “It’s easy to look things up online, but that only gets you so far. When we have a person with expertise who can answer questions, we just have a human touch that a computer doesn’t have.”

Another big draw to the bookstore is the atmosphere. Barista Makayla Skinner says that at Gingersnaps Cafe, customers can browse the shelves and enjoy a good meal in one visit.

“A lot of people don’t even know we’re here,” Skinner said. “When they come into the bookstore and say, ‘Can we get a drink? Do you know where we can get lunch?’ They keep coming back here and telling customers, ‘We have really good food back here.'”

A celebration with live music, games and giveaways is planned for Saturday. No invitation is required and the celebration begins at 11 a.m.