August 17, 2011 Former Random House rep Karen Hayes and bestselling Nashville author Ann Patchett have announced the location of their long-awaited bookstore: Greenbriar Village, at the intersection of Abbott-Martin Road and Hillsboro Pike in Green Hills. More news: Ingram veteran Mary Grey James, who knows the book industry inside and out, will be joining the Parnassus team as general manager. The store’s formal launch date has not been set, but look for doors to open in October. For additional details as they are announced, “like” the store on Facebook, here, or follow it on Twitter at @ParnassusBooks1. In the meantime, the full press release follows:
It’s Happening!
Booklovers in and around Nashville won’t have to wait much longer! Parnassus Books, owned by bestselling author Ann Patchett and publishing veteran Karen Hayes, will open its doors in Greenbriar Village–where Abbott Martin meets Hillsboro Pike–this October.
A primary service offered by Parnassus Books will be stellar customer service from a staff headed by Karen Hayes and Mary Grey James, formerly of Ingram Content Company. The store will stock the best selections of literature, non-fiction, children’s, local interests, and the arts in both printed and digital formats.
In addition, the store will carry greeting cards and journals, magazines and newspapers, locally produced products and art, and store-branded merchandise.
Parnassus Books will enable customers to buy e-books through its website and its affiliation with Google eBooks.
The store will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. A friendly, knowledgeable staff will assist customers in buying the hottest new releases, as well as an extensive backlist. Customers will be able to sign up for the “Parnassus First Edition Club” which will offer a series of collector-worthy titles signed by nationally and locally known authors.
The store’s media outreach will include an email newsletter with store news, events, and staff recommendations; as well as a Facebook page with updates about newly-released titles and events. Parnassus Books will also have a website featuring a monthly blog written by Ann Patchett.
As Mt. Parnassus was the center of Greek learning and culture, Parnassus Books will serve as a center for Nashville’s literary community by hosting author readings, workshops, book clubs, and music events. As a local independent bookstore, they will support the economy of Nashville, partner with area businesses and schools, and become an institution and resource for culture and community. It is Parnassus Books’ goal to complement and enhance the rich cultural character of The Athens of the South.
For more updates on Tennessee authors, please visit Chapter 16’s News & Notes page, here.
