If the Savoy bookshop in downtown Westerly was a lead character in a romantic comedy, music would swell every time it graced the screen. Beautiful, well-lit, comfortable and well-read—we’d all swoon. But if a book store can’t be a romantic lead, this one, at least, can definitely be a backdrop. Any Nancy Meyers movie would be glad to have it. The Savoy is that beautiful.
Beyond the store’s obvious gorgeous interior (high ceilings, dark wood moldings, daylight streaming in tall windows), the Savoy has inner beauty, too, and charming surprises around every corner. Here are seven of them—one should get to know a bookstore better before actually falling in love.
- This store has fairies.
Down near your feet, where tiny beings (such as fairies—and children) are likely to be lurking, are miniature doors, fit for perfect little houses. Obviously, these are for fairies. Children leave notes and letters taped near the doors, and at night the fairies leave answers. Pretty simple, and pretty special. And a pretty good way to get a kid excited for the bookstore.
2. More for kids—they have this cozy nook—on their very own floor!
3. Actually, that’s not even the best part for kids, down there, on the bottom floor. See it in person to feel the happy surprise in coming upon: a log cabin room, with fuzzy bean bags, stuffed woodland creatures, and windows to an idyllic mountain scene, all perfect for getting lost in that cozy I’m-reading-in-the-woods dreaminess. Sigh.
4. But for adults:
Coffee: hot, cold or take it home in syrup form for your Rhode Island official state beverage! Also, all manner of delectable sweet things. And some savory. Monotony does dampen an affair.
5. Unsure what to read? Just browse around and look for the recommendations by the bookstore staff.
6. Still unsure? There are so many nooks and crannies with large, comfortable, clean sofas on which to sit and sample the wares. If this place were on Airbnb, it would be booked until 2030. I’m sure of it.
7. This:
This magical beauty from the gift area.
Oh, Savoy. You know me.
You comfort me.
You’re gorgeous, and… I love you.
