Constellation Books: A world of reading
If you're not careful, you may mistake Constellation Books as another well-loved home on Reisterstown's Main Street. Only the star-studded banner and book display belies the impression.
But once you walk in, it's nothing but books, and book lovers. Lauretta Nagel and her staff has converted this 19th-century house into a home for all bibliophiles who wander by. Just park your car in the back parking lot and wander through the air-conditioned rooms. You can even plop down on their comfy couch and peruse the selection at your leisure.
And of course, the friendly folks inside will help you with whatever it is you need.
A little background
Nagel's bookstore, which she launched in May of 2007, all began when NASA's funding started to fizzle. "I worked on the Hubble space telescope for 18 years," Nagel says. "But after that, I started researching for this business."
NASA's loss was Reisterstown's gain. When Nagel saw this location, she knew it would be perfect for her bookstore.
Clientele
While Nagel sees many customers from around town -- "They'll come out to The Cow, get some ice cream, then head down here," she says -- there are many who travel from Glyndon, Owings Mills and Columbia to explore her selection of mostly new books. "They see my blog or Web site and come to check it out," she says.
Many area schools also order from her, so she keeps displays of all the required reading up for the families that come in.
Popular sections
Nagel counts mystery, history and kids sections as her strongest. While she also offers a small selection of CDs and DVDs, "I've tried to order ones that you can't find anywhere else."
And with a large selection of staff picks and local authors desplayed prominently, it's obvious that Nagel has succeeded in building a sense of community at her store.
Events
The local sponsorship is also evident in the events held at Constellation Books. Local authors and musicians are often invited for tea or wine tastings (snacks and conversation included), and kids events, such as an oragami class, have proven popular, Nagel says.
(Photo courtesy of www.constellationbooks.com)
While she always preferred The Hardy Boys to Nancy Drew, 
Comments
I drove up to this store from Glen Burnie for the first time a few weeks ago. It was lovely! My 6 yr old son immediately made himself at home in the kids section on the beanbag chair and proceeded to "read" quietly while I browsed the store. I was there on Irish Folk Music night (yeah!) and kiddo even requested some songs he knows. It was a lovely experience ... I only wish I lived a bit closer!
Posted by: Heather J. | August 8, 2008 5:03 PM