Mary Harris, one of the owners of the former Park Place Books, is opening a new independent bookstore called BookTree at 609 Market St very very soon.  Oct 15th soon.  The name was derived from a wooden book tree that she has and can be found in the store.  Mary has a new business partner, Chris Jarmick, who has done plenty of his own professional writing and also has a passion for books, reading, writing, listening, and sharing ideas.  Not only will you find lots of new books at BookTree, their 1800 sf 1920 building will also be a gathering place for those who love literature and mingling with local and traveling authors.  Store hours will be Mon-Fri 10-7, Sat 10-5 and Sun 12-5.

You're an avid reader, aren't you? On their website, is a heartfelt plea for support from Mary and Chris that I thought I'd share. They mention that BookTree will be one of the few remaining independent bookstores on the Eastside and expect it to be an important part of our city's identity. They firmly believe its success will come from the generosity of a community that still values the stand-alone retail book store.  

Dear Friends,

When Parkplace Books closed in December 2015 I still felt it essential for Kirkland to continue to have an independent bookstore, and I was not ready to retire.  

I offer grateful thanks for all the support you have extended to Rebecca and I over these many years and look forward to how you might extend that support to the new bookstore. Rebecca has retired but will likely be spending time in the new bookstore, particularly over the holiday season.

I'll tell you more about my new partner and co-owner of the bookstore soon.

 However, before we open for business several renovations are necessary.  A new website and signage are being created, new computers and supplies must be purchased.  We also have to raise some operating funds to be able to pay legal and insurance costs, and to establish accounts with book distributors and vendors.  We will also have some marketing costs.

We have already received several generous donations that has helped us get nearly half-way to our goal of $25,000.  More is needed to insure we will have a healthy business.

Any amount you are able to donate to BookTree will help. 

As a special thank you, all donors will get recognition in the store newsletter and all donors who are able to contribute $250.00 or more, will be named on a plaque and displayed in a place of honor in the store.  If you prefer to remain anonymous we would also respect that.

Just as important is your assistance in letting your friends and neighbors know that Kirkland will soon have a new independent bookstore.  I hope you will become a regular customer, attend readings and special BookTree events and encourage others to shop at the store.     

If you are able to make a donation please make your check out to BookTree and send it to:

BookTree

609 Market  St.

Kirkland, Wa 98033

Thank you.

With love and gratitude,

Mary Harris  

Owners: Mary Harris & Christopher J. Jarmick