Photo courtesy BookSmart. Brad Jones and Cinda Meister celebrated 30 years last month with a celebration at the store.
Store serves as a venue for author signings, book club meetings, story time and other community events
By Staff Reports
Morgan Hill’s cherished independent bookstore, BookSmart, marked a remarkable 30 years in business last month. For three decades, BookSmart has been more than a bookstore; it has been a community hub, a place for exploration, learning, and connecting. They celebrated with champagne, cookies, activities, and prizes to honor the vital role this beloved bookstore has played in the lives of residents of all ages.
Founded in 1994, BookSmart has been a cornerstone of Morgan Hill, offering a wide selection of books, toys, and gifts while serving as a venue for author signings, book clubs, story time for children, and other community events.
Owners Brad Jones and Cinda Meister have dedicated themselves not only to fostering a love for reading but to building a space where friendships grow, and where everyone feels welcome.
Jones and Meister reflect that their bookstore’s journey mirrors that of Morgan Hill itself, which has grown from a small agricultural town to a vibrant city with a close-knit community.
“BookSmart is a gathering place where people come to share ideas, dreams, and stories,” said Meister. “It’s been an honor to be part of that journey with Morgan Hill and to see generations of families find books they love here.”
Shoppers can take advantage of a 20 percent discount on toys purchased for donation to the Edward Boss Prado Foundation’s annual toy drive, supporting local families in need.
“This is a small way to make a big difference,” said Meister. “We want to help put smiles on children’s faces, and we invite our customers to join us in that effort.”
Jones added, “our store’s heart has always been our customers.”
As big chain stores and online retail have shifted the landscape for small businesses, BookSmart’s continued success is a testament to the value of independent bookstores in fostering genuine community connections. BookSmart is more than a place to buy a book; it’s a reminder of the unique power of local businesses to enrich the culture and strengthen the bonds that make a town feel like home.
