There’s a new bookstore in Ardmore and it’s called the The Story. The Story combines a sense of community, books, and a cafe to give you that good feeling while you’re visiting.
Bookstore and Self-Care
I first learned that going to a book store was my self-care. This was before the word self-care even took off. I have been an avid reader my whole life. I would visit bookstores as a young person all the time. After college I started to find that at the most stressful points of my life my refuge was bookstores. It was something about the quietness that allowed me to either journal, read, or quietly map out my life or issue.
Getting Lost in Books
There’s a sense of calm being able to get lost in books. Currently I am reading 4 books. One of the books I just finished in 4 days. It’s not that I have all of this time to read, it’s me making time because I love to read. Regardless of me having a family or a business to grow, it’s about carving time daily for myself. That is the essence of self-care. Books provide me insight. Often times something you’re thinking will get mapped out while you are reading.
I Love Coffee
One of the perks of a great bookstore that doubles as a cafe is they usually have some of the best coffee. I love coffee. Drinking coffee while reading a book or magazine or even working on your laptop is complete joy for me. So I was intrigued with The Story to see how they provided the following: coffee, ambiance, and atmosphere to their bookstore. All 3 have to be able to come together for me to take in as my new go to spot.
Ambiance at The Story
As soon as you walk in you fall in love with the bookshelves. The rows of books for a book lover is top notch. As I entered I also loved the way that The Story has the tables set up. From the tables for two or more to the barstools there’s plenty of space for all. Behind the cafe which is set up nicely is more seating. That seating is very quaint. On the wall is book and book paper and it’s stunning. There is also outdoor seating both in the front and the back.
Atmosphere at The Story
It’s quiet as one would expect in The Story. However immediately upon arrival there is a sense of peace that you don’t get from every place you walk in. When I came there were a flourishing mix of people. I loved that. There was a little of everyone represented. After I got my latte and croissant it was like the space I sat was carved for me personally. I can’t describe the peace but I know that had I gotten any other feeling I would have left immediately.
Coffee/Cafe at The Story
I was greeted immediately with a smile. They had milk options that met my personal needs. The croissant I had was delicious. I loved that they served everything with real cups and plates. A lot of places are using paper and I can understand that as well. My latte was absolutely beautiful. Anyone who drinks lattes loves latte art in there cup. Others we’re enjoying their treats as well. The latte I had with extra caramel was made to perfection.
My coffee and croissant was perfect. The atmosphere was welcoming and the ambiance hit an A+ in my book. I initially intended to stay one hour. I watched as crowds of people came in and out. All of them left smiling. The Story aimed high and succeeded. I will be a regular here. Thank you to the staff at The Story. Ardmore has a win with this one.
The Story is currently open on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9-3pm; Friday/Saturday from 9-4pm and Sunday from 2-6:30pm.
They are located at 45 E. Lancaster Ave in Ardmore PA 19003.
