'It's now or never': Rockford-area couple start new chapter with bookstore
A couple in Rockton are starting a new chapter in their lives by opening Inkwell Books & Threads later this fall.
The bookstore, located at 106A W. Main St., is a first-time business venture for Rockton residents Tierra and Darrell Polfliet.
Tierra Polfliet, an avid book reader, said she and her husband talked about owning and operating a bookstore for years before deciding to bite the bullet over the summer.
"The space was available, and it had kind of been sitting so we knew it needed a lot of work," she said. "So, we were apprehensive. ... Then, we just kind of figured it's now or never."
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Inkwell Books & Threads will be more than just books. The Polfliets will also sell vintage clothing, records and an eclectic assortment of gift items at their store.
"I don't think I've ever been to a bookstore that had a clothing part of the store," Darrell Polfliet said. "So yeah. I think we'll have a little niche."
Vintage T-shirts, denim, flannels, Harley Davidson and NASCAR and other clothing items will be sold.
The Polfliets are already receiving support from their residential and soon-to-be business neighbor.
"I just feel like everybody should chase their dreams," Dana Weiser said.
Weiser owns DeeDee's Main Street Coffee at 101 W. Main St., and talks of a collaboration already are in the works.
"We've already talked about having some sort of deal between the shops, like if they have a coffee they can come over and we'll do like punch card or vice versa," Darrell Polfliet said.
Inkwell Books & Threads will be where Butler's Emporium was once located. The 1,200-square-foot space will offer a wide selection of nearly 2,000 new and used books.
Opening day is scheduled for Nov. 3.
Chris Green: 815-987-1241; cgreen@rrstar.com; @chrisfgreen
This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Inkwell Books & Threads opening in downtown Rockton, Illinois
