I am a huge fan of independent bookstores and do not pass up many opportunities to check them out. I have wanted to go to my sister’s favorite one for years but it just never worked out when I visited so last week that was a number one thing on the list to do while we were out and about in Newark, Ohio.

Kicks Mix is a great little gem located at 38 S 3rd St in charming downtown Newark. The store boasts a mix of media including books, DVDs, CDs and albums. There is a lot to take in and I barely scratched the surface during this trip. This will definitely be a place I visit again when I find my way back to visit my sister.

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The charming shop is filled with nooks and crannies. There are books and reading related items displayed everywhere and there is book art gracing the walls and bookcases as well. It’s pretty amazing. I know my sister has taken a class making ornaments out of books that was offered here so how fun is that?

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Did I mention they have CATS? Two lovely bookstore cats that are the perfect addition to the bookstore.

First up is Margaret Catwood.

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Edgar Allen Paws didn’t want to pose for me for a good picture and was more interested in what was going on outside the store.

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The upstairs is another area to explore and has a lovely area devoted to children and young adults as well. There are a lot of great books and owner Diana Spain has created a lovely place to while away some time while in Newark.

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Signage is plentiful to help customers find their area of interest and there is a definite sense of humor in some of the signage.

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In the age of declining small businesses I am always a fan of shopping and supporting the businesses that help support local residents and the community itself. Newark has a ton of great places and I was happy to finally be able to spend more than a quick couple of days without other commitments. Next time I hope to be able to not leave before their big Newark Book Fest! That must have been amazing.

Want to learn a bit. more about Kicks Mix? I found a great article and you should be able to read it by clicking here. What do you think? Is this a place you would like to visit or have you already been there? I would love to hear about it so leave me a comment and Comment for a Cause for PARI — you can read more about that by clicking here.