To bibliophiles all across northwest Ohio, Guardian Books has been a must-have staple for preferred reading since 1958 when esteemed owner Norm Black first opened his doors while also working as a book supplier for Follett Corp following his departure from the Navy.
Of course, his bookshop isn’t just a temporary safe haven for all kinds of reading material, it also doubles as a mish-mashed collection of “oddball stuff” in his own words. Assorted stuffed animals, tools, machine parts, and gardening accessories make up just a small number of weirdly delightful things a customer might stumble across that tickles the impulse buy itch just right.
The Mission
Norm takes pride in not only his massive collection of reading material, but also in his excellence at handling people. He places himself right where he can see everyone coming in and does what he can not only to help them find what they’re looking for, but to make sure they leave with more of a spring in their step than they may have had going in. He takes pride in having accepted donations of items to add to his oddball collection from all over the area. Norm even guides new customers on grand tours of the store.
He’s even been known to extend acts of great love and charity to people who fall on hard times, sometimes even allowing them to pick out items for free around the store if it’ll help them through their troubles.
The business has been thriving for over 60 years and seems incapable of slowing down,
particularly with the rise of digital media which Norm believes makes printed media even more valuable than it’s ever been before. He believes there’s a struggle to help kids succeed in early grades, especially with their reading comprehension, which can severely hinder them as they head toward higher grades and college courses. This is why he fights to get as much effective reading material to teachers as he possibly can. It’s not just teachers, either. As well as encouraging the love of reading for children who visit his store, Norm also searches for books that might tickle the fancy of their parents as well, fostering a family-wide love of reading which can only benefit them all down the line. “I put those books together so they can read together.”
The Request
As capable and competent as Norm is in all factors regarding his business, it’s a fact that everyone needs help from time to time. Norm is hoping to find someone to hire on to help him around the store, and especially with computer based tasks. Norm’s store is located at Guardian Book Co., 8484 Brown St., Ottawa Lake, Michigan and since the store also doubles as his home, he doesn’t keep strict hours and can be visited throughout the day.
Anyone computer savvy and looking to climb on board with a beloved local treasure of a shop should definitely reach out to Norm and inquire. It’s not just about finding a job, it’s about joining the legacy of a store built for supporting both the community and fostering a love of literature of all kinds. If you’re interested, check out the shop and speak to Norm.
Whether you get the job or not, nothing beats a little adventure to a small-town book shop. You might even leave with some new reading material to snuggle in with before bed.
