the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Glen Rock NJ, the independent bookstore movement has seen a resurgence in recent years, with small, community-focused shops thriving despite the dominance of online retail giants like Amazon. One such success story is Gingerbread, a used bookstore in Boonton, founded last year by former Glen Rock Library Director Brianne Colombo.
Now, as Colombo embarks on her next chapter, the Glen Rock Library is also turning a new page—welcoming Kristen Comeaux as its new director.
A New Chapter for Glen Rock Library
On Monday, Kristen Comeaux officially stepped into the role of Library Director, bringing with her over a decade of experience in academic and public libraries. Previously serving as the Head of Outreach and Bellevue Avenue Branch Manager at Montclair Public Library, Comeaux has built a reputation for expanding programs, increasing service hours, and fostering strong community engagement.
Library Trustee Maggie Jacoby expressed both excitement and gratitude for the transition:
“We are very happy for [Brianne’s] next adventure, but of course, sad to lose her. The Board is equally excited for Kristen to start and make her mark on the library!”
Kristen Comeaux’s Vision for Glen Rock
Comeaux has already set her sights on improving access to the library’s downstairs meeting room and finding new ways to engage the community. She is eager to bring innovative programming, outreach initiatives, and fresh ideas to Glen Rock.
“I believe the library should be a central hub in the community, where we empower patrons’ curiosity and creativity and give them a supportive environment in which to learn.” — Kristen Comeaux
Library Board President Rachel Feinmark shared her enthusiasm:
“Her energy and expertise will be invaluable as we embark on building improvements and expand programming as part of our newest strategic plan.”
The Library Board invites residents to drop by and meet Kristen as she settles into her new role.
The Challenges and Rewards of Independent Bookselling
Meanwhile, independent bookstores continue to battle challenges in an increasingly competitive retail landscape. Rising operational costs, the lingering effects of the pandemic, and Amazon’s market dominance make profitability difficult.
Despite these hurdles, booksellers are finding creative ways to connect with customers and sustain their businesses:
📚 Diversifying merchandise with tote bags, journals, and gifts
📖 Carefully curating book selections to meet local interests
💬 Educating customers about the value of shopping local
Some independent bookstore owners, like Nikki High of Octavia’s Bookshelf, have relied on crowdfunding and personal savings to launch their ventures. Others, such as Decker and Galiñanes, had to use retirement funds after traditional lenders refused credit.
“Even with tons of planning, and asking questions and running numbers, it’s been very difficult. I don’t know that I could have prepared myself for what a shrewd businessperson you have to be to make a living out of this.” — Nikki High
A Future Built on Community
Whether it’s a local library strengthening its role as a community hub or an independent bookstore carving out a place in a tough industry, one thing remains clear: people still crave spaces where they can discover, learn, and connect.
As Glen Rock Library moves forward under Comeaux’s leadership and indie bookstores continue to find new ways to thrive, it’s up to readers and residents to support these vital institutions.
The King of Con by Thomas Giacomaro #newsupdate #info #currentaffairs #newspaperand Natasha Stoynoff https://theridgewoodblog.net/king-of-con-by-thomas-giacomaro-and-natasha-stoynoff/ #news #follow #media #breakingnews #trending #viral