Nomad finds a home
Books, coffee and music set the mood for unwinding
By Alexandra Cash
Staff Writer
Anyone thirsting for knowledge, coffee and relaxation has a new place in downtown Jackson.
Hardwood floors, plush couches, the aroma of coffee and a grinding noise from the espresso machine set the atmosphere at The Nomad Bookhouse, 229 S. Mechanic St., between Cortland and E. Washington streets.
Nomad owner Bridget Rothenberger of Concord said she opened the business to "create community in Jackson, especially community that (revolves) around the written word." She also said she would like to create more culture and pride in the community.
Free parking is available along South Mechanic St. or in the parking lot behind the building.
The bookhouse's hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Nomad Bookhouse has more than 6,000 book titles, according to a brochure, along with cards, magazines and unusual gifts. The bookhouse also will order books on request.
Book lovers also may enjoy a beverage such as a latte, smoothie or frozen coffee drink from the full espresso bar, along with a small snack such as a cinnamon roll or biscotti.
All the coffees served at Nomad are certified fair trade and are organic.
If you are in need of time and space to get some work done, stop in and use Nomad's free WiFi service.
Mitzi Crammore, 30, of Jackson takes advantage of the free WiFi service regularly. She said she visits the bookhouse to work and read, and uses Nomad as an escape.
"(It has a) great eclectic feel, (and) fits a niche every town needs," said Crammore.
Rothenberger said she aimed for Nomad to have a family oriented atmosphere, so smoking is not allowed in the building. Children may enjoy themselves in an interactive play area. Nomad has a children's reading hour one Saturday a month.
Adults who want to come out and play can check out the live music on Friday nights. Blues and folk acts such as Pop Novela, the illalogicalspoon and Greg Hurley perform on a small stage in front of the store's huge front windows.
Phil Riley, 19, of Albion, said he came in with friends to hear the music of Ronnie Chmielewski on Feb. 3. He said he liked the bookhouse and maybe would come back again.