Black River Books

Specialties

We are primarily a quality used bookstore (about 98% used), with carefully selected new books by locally connected authors or books focused on South Western Michigan. In our used books, we strive to have depth in as many areas as possible. Our strong areas in our over 40,000 books are: History — especially Military and War, History by country and time period, Biography, Religion, African American Studies, Native American Studies, Jewish Studies, Art, Maritime, Modern Fiction, Classical Literature, and French Literature.

History

Established in 2007.

Black River Books began as a hobby that grew into a passion, then a small part-​time internet business and finally a used bookstore with an actual store front. Prior to opening their store Memorial Weekend the Hafermans had 27,000 books in their small home and another several thousand in storage. 7 foot book shelves filled their garage. Most of the books were boxed and labeled waiting for the right location. The Haferman’s supported their book-​buying habit by selling select titles online, but the goal was always a brick-​and-​mortar store. Although used bookstores are becoming dinosaurs, the Hafermans believe there are still book lovers who want to see and smell and touch the books they buy rather than simply order them online.

Meet the Business Owner

Dick and Pam H.

Business Owner

Former pastor (Dick) and former mental health counselor (Pam) started years ago collecting modern fiction first editions. As their interest and their collection grew, although they each had full-​time professions, they dreamed of one day owning a used book store. Toward that end they began collecting books in as many genres as possible. They advertised in a small trade paper, «I buy used books in good condition,» then checked out collections when folks called. They scoured thrift stores, went to auctions, and, when their friends where going on cruises or exotic trips, they traveled to near by states, talked to bookstore owners, asked lots of questions, made purchases and came home with van-​loads full of books.

Black River Books also recommends

Taste

127

reviews

American Restaurants

,

Off Licence

,

Tapas & Small Plates

Dick and Pam H. says,

«All fresh ingredients — interesting menu. We have never been disappointed. Great food.»