MARTINSVLLE — Since Walden Books left the local mall, Deshanta Hairston felt something was missing in the Martinsville community. When she saw a business opportunity with Startup Martinsville, she took it.
Completing coursework with help from Patrick Henry Community College’s president, Angeline Godwin, Hairston and classmates spent eight weeks creating individual business plans. At the end of the course, the best of the business ideas received a startup grant.
"After they announced the winners, it was all about putting the plan into action," Hairston said.
In May, Hairston received $12,715 for her business, Books and Crannies. With a promise to open up by Sept. 30, the new business owner put in long hours at her bookstore, located at 50 E. Church Street in The Henry, formerly the Henry Hotel.
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"It was very full-blast from then until now," Hairston said.
However, the time frame helped the entrepreneur stay on track.
"Knowing that I had to meet this deadline pushed me to get everything done faster," Hairston said.
Walking through her shop, Hairston noted that while young adult fiction captivates her interest, books of all genres grace her shelves.
Both new and used books have a home at Books and Crannies. Hairston also offers trades.
"If you bring in a used book in good condition, you can take home a used book in good condition. Or you can have store credit," Hairston said.
The store opens at 11 a.m. today and Hairston invites the community to check in from time to time, even if it’s not to buy anything.
"We’ll have community activities, like a book club and kids story time, after the opening," Hairston said.
The business is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Amie Pickeral reports for the Martinsville Bulletin. She can be reached at amie.pickeral@martinsvillebulletin.com.
