Fulfilling the need to read in Barren County
BARREN COUNTY, KY.- Many areas struggle with accessing books due to transportation challenges. However, Barren County is set to address this issue with the addition of two new bookstores. Taylor Ferrell, owner of One More Chapter Bookstore, notes that before this month, residents had to travel over an hour to find the nearest chain store in Bowling Green. The local library in Glasgow was the only nearby option for book lovers.
Yet, distance isn’t the sole barrier; distractions from today’s devices also hinder reading. Lynette Brooks, owner of Nadine West Book Company, highlights that while people are reading more online, they often engage in quick scanning, which can negatively impact attention spans. “Reading a book is so good for our brains,” she explains, emphasizing the importance of traditional reading.
The opening of these bookstores aims to eliminate barriers and foster a love for reading in the community. Brooks hopes the initiative will benefit children, particularly as ADHD diagnoses rise. Engaging with books can enhance attention spans and promote better cognitive development in young readers.
Moreover, studies indicate that regular reading can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia, underscoring the need for physical books. Ferrel points out the importance of having tangible copies available, especially in an era of increasing book censorship. “So many books are being banned for silly reasons,” he remarks.
Community members can support these new ventures at their grand openings. One More Chapter Bookstore will open its doors on Friday, October 18th, while Nadine West Book Company welcomes customers on Wednesday, October 16th.
