Ogden’s new accessible book store: Happy Magpie Book & Quill
Local writer Patrick Ramsay has been craving a space for writers to mingle and enjoy literature together, so he created one himself. “I love the literary community here in Ogden, and we haven’t had a space for writers and readers to gather since before the pandemic. I wanted to create a space where you could go and find a new book, maybe attend an open mic, and be part of a workshop with other writers in person,” Ramsay said.
The decision to open a bookstore came to Ramsay from a place of inspiration. He shares that Marcy Rizzi, owner of what was once Booked on 25th, “facilitated such a positive and engaging community.” He emphasizes that the space, while it was open, gave him a feeling he will never forget.
Happy Magpie is a community literary space that operates on a donation-centered mode, which will, in-turn, make literature more accessible.
“That means a few things: Firstly, we accept (and need) donated books. We sell the books on a pay-what-you-can basis. If someone can only pay a dime for a book, we’ll happily take the dime and they’ll leave with the book. And then we donate a portion from each purchase to a local organization. Think of it as a micro-economy where used books and generosity are the currency,” says Ramsay.
“We’re making a space where you don’t have to buy a beer or a cup of coffee to enjoy the company of fellow writers and readers. If you just want to get out of the house and talk poetry for a while, we’re your people,” Ramsay adds.
To donate books to Happy Magpie, reach out on Instagram (@happymagpiebook) or email happymagpiebook@gmail.com to coordinate donations. You can also bring your books by Studio 7 at The Monarch, where there will be a donation box in front of the door.