The Bookshelf is Celebrating 50 Years!

By Chris Weber

Imagine opening your dream bookstore! In 1975, three women- Blair Garvey, Anne Harrison, and Gen Rosenkrantz – made their fantasy come true. Fifty years later, the store has survived because of its strong ties to the community, diversified income streams (like book fairs and author events), and the ability to adapt to changing market conditions. 

Tucked away in a small space in Madeira’s Camargo Station, the three owners, with the help of their husbands, built the bookshelves, bought a table from the wine store, and the antique, wooden, hand-operated cash drawer that had once been in Brownie Morgan’s gift shop. (The cash drawer and table are still there.) All they needed were books, and they were in business. 

In 1991, the store expanded and more than doubled in size. The store still remains small at 1,400 sq. feet. They can’t carry every book, but they have a well-curated collection of old and new titles. If there is something that you are looking for that they don’t have, they will get it for you! They are expert at tracking down out-of-print titles and shipping them in from all over the world!

Throughout the years, there have been a long list of partner owners who often know their customers by name. The long history is only possible because of the sense of community that the owners share with their clients. 

The current partners, Chris Weber, Darlene Ertel, and Bethany Streitmatter are all bibliophiles! They cherish spending time with some of their best friends, who speak volumes as their book spines line the shelves. They also love their customers, old and new, who quickly become family.

We would also like to thank all of the retired partners, both living and deceased: Jacque Gentile, Jenny Magro, Betsy Schram, Cary Boswell, Nancy Hancher, Mary Ann Stenger, Lili Tatsuno, Robin Nielsen, Janet Kindel, Leezie Borden, Dibby Johan, Patsy Winn, Jeanne Schmidt, Ellie Paulson, and Prissy Connell. Their dedication and fortitude made the store what it is today.

On September 20, 2025, the Bookshelf of Madeira will celebrate its 50^th year in business. For a book lover, it will be the party of the year. Come celebrate with previous owners, current partners, local authors, and book lovers everywhere.