Shelves at the Babbling Book. (Jillian Rogers)
The Babbling Book and Dragon’s Nook bookstore will change ownership to become the Moosterious Emporium. Jo Goerner will take on ownership of the shop December 1st.
It’s not unusual to find Jojo Goerner behind the counter of the Babbling Book and Dragon’s Nook bookstore downtown. The former outdoor guide traded in seasonal work for a stable gig as an employee.
But this December, she’s transitioning from employee to owner. There will be a few notable changes, including the name. As of December, the store will be the Moosterious Emporium. Beyond the books, stationary, games, and local art one finds at the Babbling Book, the Moosterious Emporium will add musical supplies.
“Guitar strings, capos, tuners, reeds, cork grease, rosin, anything that people need . Or at least be a place people can order supplies. That’s not something we have in town anymore,” she says
Goerner has new ideas for community involvement in the bookstore. She’s offering the space to music teachers who would like to give lessons and will start a Sit and Sip event where patrons can read together while they sip a beverage of their choice. This spirit of community isn’t new to the location: the bookstore has long been a hub in Haines.
“It’s really coming alive,” says current owner Darcy Messano. She says she feels really positive about the transition.
“Jojo walked through the door and it was just meant to be. Man, she just fit right in here and she’s just going to take it to the next level with the music.”
Messano says that the year and a half she’s spent at the helm of the Babbling Book flew by, but she’s ready for a change. “We want to do more travelling. I’m not the best with the snow. I just have to be honest with that. So I’m looking forward to some warm beaches, frankly.”
Goerner is looking forward to suggestions from the community to make the Moosterious Emporium a space everyone can use and enjoy. “These are things that I don’t know when they’re gonna happen, but I’m hoping to eventually add them to the store. Be patient haines. I’m gonna be here for awhile. I’d like to be here for awhile,” she laughs.
She will be rolling out new offerings and programs as fast as she can.
In Haines, I’m Claire Stremple.
