By popular demand, community members submitted their wish to learn more about the history, inspiration, and people behind Second Chance Books, one of the oldest downtown businesses in Independence, Oregon.
Tucked into the Masonic Lodge building along Main Street, Second Chance Books has resided in its current location for over 15 years. Inside, residents and visitors will find a plethora of knowledge, information, and prose printed upon the gently used books that plaster the shelves. As colorful, if not more, as the stories inside are the tales of co-owners Steve and Dina Carter, whose love of books began well before their business took off.
“We used to go to bookstores when we were dating,” laughs Steve. “That’s how exciting we are.”
Utilizing a how-to-guide on opening a used bookstore they found in the library, and their combined experience in restaurant management and finance, the Carters set their sights on pursuing their passion.
“We’ve tweaked it over the years from that original model,” said Dina. “Being aware of your customers, and trying to accommodate them, is so important.”
Having experienced the ebbs and flows of business, the Carters hold a piece of lived advice.
“You just get up the next day and show up.” A staple of our river city, you can visit Second Chance Books at 307 S Main St. in Independence, Oregon.
