Welcome to PLENTY!
We're a nonprofit, independent bookshop in the heart of Cookeville's historic downtown. We believe that independent bookshops can change the world, starting with our own neighborhood.
See what we're doing, and partner with us as we work to tackle issues by improving literacy and build community by elevating book culture in the Upper Cumberland, creating a sustainable model for change.
When you shop with us, you impact lives.
Every purchase at Plenty Downtown Bookshop fuels our mission: improve literacy and elevate book culture. We're starting with our neighborhood, the Upper Cumberland.
From a community-wide read and book study of The Anxious Generation to a growing network of Little Book Libraries, we have planted roots right where we are. Our book clubs (and those we partner with) and author events connect readers of all ages, building community around a shared love of all things literary.
And as a nonprofit, we believe what we have is sustainable and replicable, with the ability to impact communities everywhere for the better. We plan on helping others obtain the same success, because we truly believe bookshops can change the world.
The Life of Plenty Podcast
Founders Lisa Uhrik and Ashley Michael host the Life of Plenty podcast, where they sit down with community members and representatives from the book world to talk about the books that shaped them, and what they're reading now. Past guests have been other bookstore owners, writers, and members of our own community, with a common thread that reading has positively impacted their lives.
A Surprising Impact
When you think of where we might donate books, the first places that come to mind are schools and libraries, and yes! We donate along with holding fundraisers.
But we've also placed books at the animal shelter, recovery centers, the hospital, grief support groups. Simply stated, books can make an impact anywhere and everywhere. And when the books are purchased from us? That impact is doubled, because that purchase enables future donations and events.
We're happy to partner with a wide variety of organizations. You can learn more by visiting our nonprofit page.
We'll hope you decide to support us in our mission!