Bookstores are a treasure chest for book lovers. Bookworms celebrated at Polar Peek Books and Treasures with owner Patty Reedyk and staff as they celebrated the store’s twentieth anniversary on Saturday, Oct. 19.
Pumpkin spice cake and balloons welcomed visitors inside to a treasure hunt and a draw to win various books donated by local publisher Oolichan Books owner, Randall Mcnair. Reedyk was the first employee when the shop opened in 1993 by locals Anne Anderson and Laura Nelson. Reedyk has been the sole owner/operator for the last five years. In front of a crowd Reedyk thanked her staff for their help.
“This anniversary is about celebrating community,” says Reedyk. “This place wouldn't be what it is today without the support of my wonderful employees, past and present, the public who shop here and the authors who have held literary events here.”
Original store creator and owner Laura Nelson was there to congratulate Reedyk.
A photo collage painted a picture of two decades of fun including bikes and costumes.
More than books can be found in a store that is as pleasing to the eye as the contents are to the mind. Children’s games, ornate journals, unique cards, stationary and original artwork are a few of the gems to be found in Polar Peeks.
As a locally owned and independent bookstore, it has been a cornerstone in the community, supporting literary events at the Fernie Heritage Library, the Sparwood Library, and the Fernie Writers' Conference. The shop supports authors and has hosted many reading events and book launches over the years, hosts a monthly book club and supports local charities. There is a great selection of local hiking and biking trail maps and guide books, local history books, a large selection of local and Canadian authors and is renowned for its selection of award winning children’s books and toys.
Come see for yourself. They are open seven days a week or check out their new website www.polarpeekbooks.ca.