When compared to similarly sized cities like Cincinnati and Louisville, Indianapolis has a notable gap in one specific area — independent bookstores.
Jake Budler and Julia Breakey noticed this hole and decided to do something about it. The couple is the driving force behind Tomorrow Bookstore, a welcoming space that aims to build community while sharing stories from global voices.
Breakey, a South Africa native, hand-picked every book you’ll find in the store and she’s happy to take special orders if there’s a particular title you don’t see on the shelves.
More than a bookstore, the new Mass Ave spot also highlights local creators like Sunbed Watercolors, Shisha Candles, and Helm Coffee Roasters [all below].
During my first visit to the store, I left with a book (of course) and a “Late Night In Broad Ripple” candle from Shisha (go buy one — you won’t believe how good it smells!)
It’s easy to get lost perusing the shelves at Tomorrow Bookstore. Jake and Julia have curated a collection that has something for everyone. Whether you find yourself drawn to the shop’s robust fiction section, the non-fiction shelves, or the Indiana authors area — wouldn’t be an Indy bookstore without Kurt Vonnegut, after all — I can almost guarantee you won’t leave without making a purchase.
Within easy walking distance of the Bottleworks District and the rest of Mass Ave’s shops and restaurants, Tomorrow Bookstore is bound to become a gathering place for self-proclaimed bookworms, local activists, and arts lovers alike. It’s easy to picture the space functioning as a sort of modern day literary salon à la Gertrude Stein.
It’s exactly the type of place Indianapolis needs.
Tomorrow Bookstore’s grand opening will be held this Saturday, April 15 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The first 25 shoppers get a free “Let’s Buy More Books Tomorrow” tote bag like mine [above].
Are you excited for Indy’s new indie bookstore?
Tomorrow Bookstore is located at 882 Massachusetts Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46204.
P.S. As always, I love to hear from you on Instagram, @_rebekahbarton.