...& More: How We Started

In 1991, college seniors Cinnamon Dokken and Bryan Peterson took a leap of faith and opened A Novel Idea Bookstore with a stock of 2000 books. The store was located in an unheated basement in an old warehouse on the edge of downtown Lincoln. Shelves were made from scrap lumber. It was a long, cold year--but the shop managed to pay the bills and increase the stock.

In 1992, we moved to our present location in downtown Lincoln. We were thrilled to have windows and heat! Katherine Bergstrom, a book lover since birth, came to work in the shop in 1994.  At that time, Cinnamon became the sole proprietor and Katherine became A Novel Idea Bookstore's in-shop manager.   

We have a longstanding tradition of community involvement and investment in education and the arts. Thoughout the year, we host a variety of readings, book signings and events.
 
We've built our business on finding quality books and providing personal customer service.  Our staff is knowledgeable, friendly and reads like crazy.  Whether you're looking for a relaxing browse, searching for a particular title or selling a collection,  we think you'll enjoy visiting our store - and we look forward to meeting you!