The Legacy

The books live in a space that was originally an apothecary. The shop has been reincarnated many times over the decades, but retains original wooden cases, glass-fronted cupboards, pressed tin ceiling, and even a couple of library ladders to reach the highest shelves.

The books themselves, of course, are a gift from the past. Mostly they are inexpensive and because reused they are environmentally thoughtful. Some are treasures, rare and special. Together they form an odd and useful collection, numerous and varied, like any strong community. They come and go (and sometimes come back again), like the seasons.

The bookstore also represents a family initiative, which in itself speaks of legacy. While Juliet is usually the one behind the counter, we draw strength and ideas from both older and younger generations. The family’s experiences in many cultures, languages, countries, and careers, and an abiding love of learning shared across the generations, are now part of the legacy as well. 

Finally, the store dog, Kichu, is undoubtedly a gift from the universe. A rescue adopted in 2021, Kichu is a sweet, elderly, entirely toothless, and somewhat timid beagle mix who looks forward to welcoming you.

 The Intent

A legacy is a thing to appreciate, care for, preserve, and share. In that spirit, we aim to provide:

• A warm welcome with an invitation to browse or sit and read to heart’s content

• Attentive service, including help to find a book, gift wrapping, book mailing

• An ever-changing yet always varied collection, including books for children and teens

• Good conversation for those who wish it, quiet for those who seek it

• A continuing resource for the community

 Things to Come

We continue to find ways to deepen our community roots. In 2022 we’re adding several small monthly events. Also in the works are additional shelves to accommodate more-more-more books. All proceeds from the summer sale carts will benefit the Bethlehem Community Dinner this year. Year-round we’re open Friday-Saturday-Sunday each week, with additional open days and hours across the seasons.

Legacy Used Books will be deeply happy if we can help the books – and by extension the ideas, the art, the fun, the mysteries, and the knowledge that fill them – keep flowing into, around, and out of Bethlehem. Welcome to all.

P.S. Beannacht means blessing; Scottish poet John O’Donohue’s poem, Beannacht, includes in part these wishes:

May the nourishment of the earth be yours,
May the clarity of light be yours,
May the fluency of the ocean be yours,
May the protection of the ancestors be yours.