A Beacon for Young Readers: Harvard Book Store’s Lasting Impact

Linda Seamonson, an owner of the Harvard bookstore and Scholastic Kid Reporter, Faith Nguyen

At a time when digital distractions are everywhere, the Harvard Book Store offers something different: a space where reading still feels magical. Located in the heart of Cambridge, this independent bookstore plays a vital role in nurturing young readers and promoting new authors.

Through author events and an inviting atmosphere, the store has become more than a retail space — it is a community store where stories come to life and future writers start their journey. When you walk into the Harvard Book Store, it is not just the books that catch your eyes, but also the friendly staff, peaceful environment and a kid or two sitting in the corner with their nose in a book.

Supporting New Authors
This iconic Cambridge institution is not just about selling titles — it is about fostering a community. Unlike most bookstores, this one offers a way for new authors to connect, explore and grow in their writing. Linda Seamonson, an owner of the bookstore and Wellesley, Massachusetts, native, shares how they are able to connect with new and rising authors. Seamonson shared, “On the Harvard Book Store website there is a section on events, and they host authors who have brand new books out. So, every event on our schedule is for a book that's come out in the last month or two, or maybe slightly more.”

However, that is not the only way that the bookstore integrates itself with authors. In addition, they send a newsletter once a week to a mailing list, composed of thousands of people, to tell everybody what events are coming up. “And so that's one way of getting the word out. We also read social media and so much more,” Seamonson said. In every way, the Harvard Book Store proves it's more than just a place to buy books and that it is a place where new voices are heard, supported and celebrated.

A Store That Feels Like Home
For young readers, the bookstore’s warmth and variety leave a lasting impact. Ashton, 14, shared, “I like the antiqueness of it. How despite its age it still is upheld.” He also said that he enjoys the variety of books. When asked for one thing that kids should take away from the Harvard Book Store, Seamonson replied, “The love of books.” She also said, “There's nothing that makes me happier than seeing some kid sprawled on the floor with a book.”

Katherine Ferguson, the Children's Buyer at Harvard Book Store, originally from Connecticut, but has been a resident of Boston, Massachusetts, for the last 16 years, said she wants the bookstore to feel homey and welcoming. “I want everyone to feel like it's a space for a community of people who love reading and books.” At its core, the Harvard Book Store is a home for those who find comfort and inspiration in the pages of a book.

Trends in Youth Picks
Kids' and teens’ reading interests are shifting, and the bookstore is monitoring current trends with new book choices to match those changes. The store sees rising interest in horror and romance novels for teens. Graphic novels are also popular and still growing. Nonfiction stays strong, especially for kids who love history or real-world topics. On the other hand, Fergason mentioned, “There's always that group of kids who they aren't really willing to pick up fantasy or sci fi, but they are thrilled to read about sports, animals, or history. We have seen a trend from the last 10 to 15 years of teenagers and kids who want paper books as an escape from the digital reality. Particularly after COVID, lots of kids wanted a place to detach themselves from their screen.”

The selection process of books that end up on the shelves is one handled with care. First, sales history is brought up to see previous authors whose books were sold. Beyond the data, the team listens to booksellers, reads reviews, and stays alert to publishing trends. In the end, every book on the shelf reflects not just trends or data, but the heart of a bookstore that knows its readers and cares deeply about what stories they take home.