Mission

Our mission is to create an inclusive space where stories foster community, empathy, and connection. We celebrate serendipitous discovery, diverse perspectives, and local creators, nurturing a thriving, compassionate community through our curated collection and events.

vision

We envision Happenstance Bookshop as the heart of a vibrant, inclusive community where books and people connect with intention, fostering lifelong learning, creativity, and meaningful relationships that build a legacy of care and imagination for generations.

At Happenstance Bookshop, our values shape everything we do, from the way we curate our shelves to the way we interact with our customers and community. These guiding principles reflect our commitment to fostering meaningful connections, supporting local talent, and celebrating the richness of the human experience through the stories we share. We believe in the power of books to not only entertain but also to inspire, unite, and uplift, making our bookshop a space where curiosity, creativity, and compassion come together. Each value represents the heart of our mission: to create a welcoming, inclusive environment that serves as a cornerstone of connection, care, and community.

Our Guiding Principles.

  • HUMANITY.

    We believe in the power of personal connection, empathy, and understanding: Every individual’s story is important, and we are dedicated to creating a space where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. At Happenstance Bookshop, books are not just pages, but windows into people’s lives, fostering empathy and celebrating the richness of the human experience.

  • COMMUNITY.

    We are committed to building a strong community: Our bookshop is a cornerstone for connection and belonging. We’re not just selling books; we’re building a community where neighbors become friends and stories unite us all. Through shared love of literature, we create a space where relationships flourish and conversations spark meaningful connections.

  • CARE & COMPASSION.

    We believe in care and compassion: Taking care of each other is at the heart of what we do. Whether it’s the way we interact with customers, the support we offer our employees, or the kindness we extend to our broader community, Happenstance Bookery is a place of care, compassion, and understanding. We foster an environment where everyone feels supported, listened to, and respected.

  • SUPPORT FOR THE LOCAL ECONOMY.

    We support the local economy: Happenstance Bookshop is deeply committed to collaborating with businesses, artisans, and authors who share our values. By supporting local talent and entrepreneurship, Happenstance Bookshop is committed to nurturing the vibrancy of our community. Together, we create an ecosystem where creativity thrives and the local economy grows.

  • CURIOSITY & LIFE-LONG LEARNING.

    We encourage curiosity and lifelong learning: Our carefully curated selection encourages readers of all ages to explore new perspectives, ideas, and stories. We are a place where curiosity leads the way, and discovery is celebrated with every turn of the page.Description goes here

  • INCLUSIVITY.

    We champion inclusivity: We are committed to creating a space that welcomes everyone, regardless of background, race, gender, or identity. Our shelves reflect the diversity of human experiences, and our doors are open to all. Happenstance Bookshop is a place where everyone belongs, where differences are embraced, and where the richness of our community is reflected in the stories we share.

  • CREATIVITY & IMAGINATION.

    We celebrate the boundless power of creativity and imagination: Stories have the ability to transport us, inspire us, and spark the dreamer in all of us. Happenstance Bookshop is a place where creativity thrives and imagination knows no bounds—a sanctuary for those who seek to dream, explore, and create.

  • TRANSPARENCY.

    We believe in trust as the foundation of strong relationships with our community, customers, and partners. Transparency means being open about the origins of our curated selections, how we support local artisans, and our pricing and policies. We strive to create an environment where questions are welcomed, feedback is valued, and processes are clear. By embracing transparency, we build confidence and connection, ensuring every decision reflects integrity and mutual respect.