An independent bookseller in Hayward?

Yes, an independent bookstore has opened its doors in dowtown Hayward & thank goodness! B Street Books, a downtown Hayward fixture for around 50 years, lost their lease, I think, two years back. A long-term employee of that shop, R. Rettig, opened up the current spot, Books on B, directly across from the old bookstore location. Whatever the name of the joint, books are back on B Street!

Also fun: Books on B sells shop-swag in the form of cute totes, t-shirts (yellow), mugs (also yellow) & pint glasses. I say: every little helps! 

Books on B is an open, airy space. The walls are a very light-green and the front windows emit a ton of natural light. There's an immediate sense of 'ahh' when walking into this shop. If you're expecting a musty-dusty book experience, then be happily surprised here. 

One is able to find, among other subjects: LGBT-themed texts, history books--with a solid emphasis on local history, women's lit., children's lit. (some Spanish language titles as well), auto-biography, sci-fi/fantasy, and cookbooks. 

There are two comfy chairs on premises for those who wish to sit and browse a spell. Currently, there's a wrap-your-own-gift-book table that looked very inviting. Next year's calendars are in stock. Single and boxed cards are sold as well. I was particularly taken with the selection of hummingbird-themed box sets. 

On a lower shelf of a lovely wooden table (also for sale) was a small selection of community-event flyers and cards.

What I liked most about visiting Books on B was the sense of comeraderie, and sort of 'togetherness' between the customers and bookstore workers/volunteers. The owner of the shop was able to raise a pretty penny in the form of generous donations to get the bookstore up and running. She currently has 'helpers' assist customers on the floor & with stocking shelves. Through continued community initiative, this little beauty should be around for years to come.