Kate McDonald has opened Paperbound Books at 107 F St., Suite B, in downtown Cheney.
CHENEY – After a 12-year absence, Cheney is home to a bookstore once again.
Paperbound Books, 107 F Street Suite B, owned by Kate MacDonald, opened last month, offering a selection of used and new books, along with puzzles and some textbooks for college students.
"I had a collection of 300 books when I was just twelve," MacDonald recalled. "Most of them came from thrift stores because we didn't have many bookstores around."
After moving to Cheney, MacDonald noticed the town lacked a bookstore.
"When I was working in Spokane, I got tired of commuting just to find a good bookstore," she said. "So, I decided to open one here."
MacDonald began drafting a business plan. However, when she shared it with a coworker, she was met with skepticism.
"He asked me, 'How many people are there in Cheney' and was pretty discouraging," she said.
While working at West Plains Roasters, the reduced commute gave her the time to seriously pursue her dream. She set up a home office, built her own website, and began searching for rental space.
"I asked around to see if anyone had a small spot where I could start a little pop-up shop," MacDonald explained.
Douglas LaBar, owner of The Mason Jar, reached out. He later suggested a space next to his coffee shop.
"He said they were willing to build it out and include the costs in the rent over time," MacDonald said. "Now, it's exactly how I envisioned it."
Paperbound Books offers a wide range of genres, primarily used books with some new titles from local authors.
"I've already hosted multiple author signings, and we're excited to have Chris Wilder here soon," MacDonald said.
The store spans two floors and features a charming wooden balcony overlooking the main area.
MacDonald continues to add to her inventory by sourcing books from garage and estate sales, and she plans to expand into comics, as well.
Looking ahead, MacDonald hopes to expand.
"If the tenants behind us move out, I'd love to knock down this wall and double the space," she said, gesturing toward her closet."
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