Meet Cincy Book Bus, the Ohio bookstore started in a 1962 Volkswagen

Local, independent bookstores have never been more important. With fair access to literature under political attack, bookstores are a bulwark against censorship and an asset to the communities they serve.
Each week we profile an independent bookstore, discovering what makes each one special and getting their expert book recommendations.
This week we have owner Melanie Moore of Cincy Book Bus in Cincinnati, Ohio!
What’s your store’s story?
For the past five years, Cincy Book Bus has been fueling a passion for reading in Cincinnati. This woman-owned store began with a retired teacher’s dream to bring books directly to the people. The store began out of a 1962 Volkswagen transporter truck and has grown into a brick-and-mortar bookstore serving customers from all over the country.
Check out: USA TODAY’s Independent Bookstores Map
What makes your independent bookstore unique?
I was a teacher for 25 years serving schools in low-income areas. I witnessed firsthand the need to get books directly into kids’ hands. I take 100% of the profits from the store to buy new children’s books to donate to local schools and organizations. I have a passion for getting books into the hands of kids who need them most.
What’s your favorite section in your store?
My favorite section of the store features “Book Bus Exclusives.” These are special books that aren’t readily available locally. I have connections with publishers overseas and want to bring these books to my store so customers can have access to them without needing a passport.
What book do you love to recommend to customers and why?
“The Book Bus,” of course. I co-authored the kids book with Brian Wray and Mike Helm illustrated the story of how an old truck on a cherry farm in Colorado became The Book Bus inspiring a passion for reading wherever it goes.
What book do you think deserves more attention and why?
“These Silent Woods” by Kimi Cunningham Grant. It’s not just a mystery thriller but a literary marvel with such rich character development. It’s a beautiful story and I was truly invested in the characters and their relationship.
Why is shopping at local, independent bookstores important?
These bookstores are at the heart of the community. They bring people together regardless of their backgrounds and unite them through the love of literature. Every independent bookstore I know gives back and builds into the community where they reside. When you support an independent bookstore, it’s not just a book purchase but an investment in your community.
What are some of your store’s programs or partnerships coming up this quarter that you would like to share?
It’s Pop-Up season so that means the Book Bus will be once again hitting the road to set up shop at local coffee shops and markets.