Business
BY JOVANNA AGUILAR
Books Abound has regular avid readers.
Books Abound only accepts paperback trade-ins.
PHOTOS BY JOVANNA AGUILARCOMMUNITY IMPACT
Books Abound marks 28 years as Cy-Fair literary icon
Nearly 28 years after retired couple Je and Laura Otto opened a used bookstore to clear out a growing stack of novels in their garage and keep themselves busy, Books Abound has become a quiet refuge for readers. The longtime store, sustained by customer trades and occasional donations, now doubles as a lifeline for local avid readers and incarcerated readers. Staying local Je Otto, spends most of his time trading and selling books to local readers. Even as platforms such as Amazon and other digital platforms chip away at business, the Otto’s
said they will continue promoting traditional books while supporting paperbacks. “You know, we don’t know what’s going to happen in the future, but we’re content to just stay here and serve the community,” Je Otto said. What’s special about it? The used bookstore operates with a majority of books sourced from trade-ins and about 10% through donations. The friendly atmosphere o ers a cozy library feel with books sorted by genre and author. Although books are sorted accordingly, the Otto’s said they are always happy to guide customers and direct them towards their next hidden gem.
Je and Laura Otto have operated Books Abound for nearly 28 years.
WOODEDGE DR.
BARELYLN.
N
11650 Jones Road, Houston Facebook: Books Abound
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