What is unique about Mysterious Galaxy bookstore is not just their name or the genre of books they sell, which includes sci-fi, mystery, fantasy and horror, but what makes them stand out as a independent book store is their passion, and dedication to not only books but to the community. Mysterious Galaxy first started in San Diego, with Co-owners Jeff Mariotee, Maryelizabeth Hart and Terry Gillman. After Gillman moved to the south bay and experienced some nostalgia from the San Diego store she decided to start up a second store in her new home. She first started hosting luncheons with 40 to 50 women who would receive lunch and a signed first edition book as part of the event. At every luncheon partial proceeds would go to a specific non profit organization such as Pen in the Classroom. Eventually these luncheons led to the opening of Mysterious Galaxy’s second location in Redondo Beach. The store started with a soft opening in September followed by a grand opening in October. During the first month of their opening, their goal was to have 30 authors for book signings in 30 days. The store surpassed their goal by having over 30 authors in 30 days. These book signings are a monthly event and are free to everyone.
Two months ago Mysterious Galaxy participated in an event called World Book Night. A night where book lovers all around the world were given a chance to give away free copies of some of their favorite books, from a preselected list. The books are then give to readers who may not have access to books. “It’s basically a chance for people who love books to go out and share that love,” says Leanna Herrera Marketing and Events Manager for the Redondo Beach store. “It’s intended for people who don’t really read for you to go out and share that book with them. ” Residents from all over the south bay, picked up boxes of books to give to hospital patients, homes for women in recovering, Ronald McDonald house charity, schools and places where people can be impacted by the stories in books. But in order for the staff of Mysterious Galaxy to be able to make connections within the community, they first make connections with the books in the store
The staff at Mysterious Galaxy not only makes it their job to read many of the books in the store but they also have discussions during staff meetings. And when customers come into the store, looking for a particular book, by having a short conversation and maybe answering a few questions the staff can customers the right book. “It’s a personal opinion, you have to connect with someone for them to recommend something to you. They have to know you a little. “ say Leanna Herrera, Marketing and Events Manager of Mysterious Galaxy Redondo Beach. “ We are all avid readers, you start a conversation with us about a book and it’s hard to shut us up.”
Mysterious Galaxy is dedicated to putting books in the hands of readers and non readers alike. They continue to grow as an independent bookstore from their connection and commitment to the south bay community. In fact, it has been show that independent stores give 40% more back into their community then big box stores. As Leann Herrera stated“ If you give somebody the right book you’re going to turn them into a reader for the rest of their life.” And this is what the store plans on doing.
Here is a list of some upcoming events. Check out www.mystgalaxy.com for more details
June 26th
New Books on Sale 10:00 am
Todd McCaffrey Launch Party for SKY DRAGONS in Redondo Beach 7:30 -8:30 pm
June 27th
Joseph Kanon signs in Redondo Beach 7:30 – 8:30 pm
June 28th
Leigh Bardugo Signs in Redondo Beach 7:30 -8:30 pm
June 30th
David Brin Signs in Redondo Beach 2:30 pm
Mysterious Galaxy Bookstore: Redondo Beach
2810 Artesia Blvd.
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
Tel: 310.542.6000
