Denver bookstore West Side Books faces challenges

Upon entering West Side Books, the first thing that captures your attention is the nostalgic scent of old books. It’s a comforting smell that transports you back to simpler times, like walking into a small-town library where the librarian knew you by name and your reading preferences.

Regular patrons of West Side Books in Denver’s Highland neighborhood cherish this feeling. The store, located at 3434 W. 32nd Ave., has become a home away from home for many. Owner Lois Harvey and her staff are regarded as friends who offer personalized recommendations and expert guidance through the vast collection of new and vintage books, often described as a treasure trove. The bookstore also boasts a selection of rare books.

Customers like Michael Hester, who lives nearby, find themselves discovering unexpected gems every time they visit. “I look around and I go, ‘Oh, there’s a book I didn’t realize that I needed,'” Hester shared. For Jody Georgeson, who resides farther north, West Side Books is more than just a bookstore – it’s a place where conversations about literature feel like home.

However, the future of this beloved neighborhood establishment hangs in the balance as Harvey, 72, prepares to retire on Jan. 1. Having worked in Denver’s bookstores since the late 1970s and previously owning Capitol Hill Books, Harvey is ready to pass the torch to Matt Aragon-Shafi, the 36-year-old manager who has been an integral part of West Side Books for eight years.

With the store facing challenges such as increased rent and the need for downsizing, Aragon-Shafi is determined to carry on Harvey’s legacy. He has already made strides in expanding the store’s online presence and is committed to adapting to the changing landscape of retail.

Despite the uncertainties ahead, Harvey remains optimistic about the bookstore’s future. She credits Aragon-Shafi’s passion, dedication, and intelligence as key strengths that will help him navigate the challenges that lie ahead. “He’s the heir. He gets to take it and run,” Harvey remarked, highlighting Aragon-Shafi’s readiness to embrace the challenge.

A neighborhood gem

Reflecting on his journey in the book business, Aragon-Shafi acknowledges the invaluable lessons he’s learned from Harvey. These lessons have shaped his approach to customer relationships and decision-making, qualities that will be essential in sustaining the bookstore’s presence in the community.

As the prospect of downsizing looms, Aragon-Shafi remains hopeful about the store’s ability to adapt to the neighborhood’s evolving needs. “We may have to curtail our inventory and assess what the community expects from us,” he explained.

West Side Books has been a fixture in the neighborhood since its inception in 1997, initially housed in a different location on West 32nd Avenue. Over the years, it has become a hub for literary events, author talks, and community gatherings, cementing its status as a cultural cornerstone.

For patrons like Hester, the bookstore’s significance goes beyond its shelves. “Lois brings in authors to speak about their books. She hosts various events that really bring people in,” Hester shared, emphasizing the store’s role in fostering a sense of community.

Georgeson echoes this sentiment, underscoring the importance of independent bookstores in nurturing a well-informed community. “When you get the big monopolies, all you get are the best sellers. I think it’s also important as a gathering place for a neighborhood, a place people go to feel that sense of a community,” Georgeson noted.

As Harvey prepares to embark on the next chapter of her life, she remains committed to supporting Aragon-Shafi in his endeavors. Reflecting on her unexpected journey from aspiring medical professional to bookstore owner, Harvey emphasized the role of curiosity in shaping human experiences. “Curiosity is really one of our best features as human beings,” she mused.