Download or read book The Art of the Bookstore written by Gibbs M. Smith and published by Gibbs Smith. This book was released on 2009-10-01 with total page 153 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The unique lives of bookstores across America are captured in words and original oil paintings in this loving tribute to booksellers and bibliophiles. For decades, publisher Gibbs M. Smith visited bookstores across the United States. Inspired by the unique personality and ambiance of these community cultural hubs, he made oil paintings of these bookstores to feature on the covers of his publishing company’s catalogue each season. The Art of the Bookstore collects sixty-eight of these paintings, pairing them with quotes, essays and remembrances about bookselling—a pursuit that is often more art than science—from Smith as well as other industry veterans. This volume captures the unique atmosphere of iconic bookshops including New York City’s Strand Bookstore, Washington, D.C.’s Politics & Prose, and L.A.’s Book Soup.