Student Achievements
M.A. Student Finds Success with Local Bookstore
July 09, 2019
Jennifer Kinne is an English student who, in addition to being a GVSU graduate Student, is running a successful local independent bookstore named Books & Mortar. Though the bookstore came as a surprise to her while pursuing her M.A., the opportunity fulfills one of Jennifer’s long-time dreams. “I never thought that the opportunity to run a bookstore would be open to me at such a young age, but ever since I decided to take over Books & Mortar, my Master’s program has helped me immensely,” Jennifer said. “My reading and writing has set me up for success as a bookstore owner, and my fellow students and professors have stepped up to support my dream.”
Books & Mortar is described as a proudly progressive, consciously curated, and fiercely independent neighborhood bookstore.ToJennifer this means Books & Mortar is more than a commercial space. She explains that the store it is a community center where discussion of justice issues is not only welcomed but encouraged. “We work hard at Books & Mortar to support local social justice initiatives, and we also work daily to make our space an inclusive home for all Grand Rapidians, writers and readers. Books & Mortar is consciously curated, meaning that I hand-select every book that comes into this space... We are a neighborhood operation, and we will be staying that way as long as our community needs us.”
Jennifer is looking forward to continuing her Master's program at GVSU and furthering her education in the future. “I hope to learn more about the world of academia by writing articles and attending conferences, ultimately with the goal of pursuing a Ph.D. I am also looking forward to what Books & Mortar has in store for me. I can see it growing and branching into more areas of community-building and activism. I'm excited to be along for the ride!” Congratulations to Jennifer on all her successes!