This year and month marks the 10th anniversary of Town Books in San Anselmo. When the space (formerly Riccardo’s Restaurant) became available, Sue Neil collaborated with her daughter, Julie, an interior designer, to create a used bookstore with visual appeal and charm. And to this day, the proceeds continue to support the San Anselmo Library.
What do you do?
I’m one of the founders of Town Books. I still serve as “brand manager,” paying attention to the details (think custom-built shelves made from salvaged bleacher benches), and also help oversee a changing display of work by local artists.
Where do you live?
In San Anselmo.
How long have you lived in Marin?
Forty-eight years! I raised my two daughters here and have two grandkids who grew up in San Anselmo as well.
Where can we find you when you’re not at work?
I’m very involved in another volunteer effort—stocking Community Fridges located in the neighborhood. I can often be found gardening in my yard. I enjoy painting, and I read lots of books, of course.
If you had to convince someone how awesome Marin is, where would you take them?
A stroll along the Avenue in downtown San Anselmo. For our meal, I’d take them to Comforts for their famous Chinese Chicken Salad and Chicken Okasan and swing by M.H. Bread & Butter for fresh bread.
What’s one thing Marin is missing?
With all the natural beauty and delights Marin has to offer, it’s easy to forget the needs of the world. At times, we risk “missing” staying aware and invested.
What’s one bit of advice you’d share with your fellow Marinites?
Set an example. Get involved in your community, make connections and volunteer.
If you could ask anyone to join you at dinner, who would you invite?
Amor Towles, who wrote one of my favorite books, A Gentleman in Moscow.
What’s some advice you wish you knew 20 years ago?
I guess I wish I’d been reassured that I could incorporate my interests and expertise in useful gratifying ways.
What’s something that 20 years from now will seem cringeworthy?
Plastics! I hope we will realize the misguided overuse and lazy reliance on them.
Big question. What’s one thing you’d do to change the world?
I hope that what I’m doing now, in my own small way, contributes toward positive change. Small steps can take you very far.
Keep up with Neil and Town Books at TownBooks.org and at @townbooks_sa.
Nish Nadaraja was on the founding team at Yelp, serves on the San Anselmo Arts Commission and wants to read a lot more!
We love Sue! And San Anselmo! And to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Town Books, they’re hosting a 2-month art exhibit of BOOKAGAMI hand-folded altered books now through October, and an artist reception this Friday Sept 6, 5-8pm.
A good portion of Bookagami sales go to Town Books and the San Anselmo Public Library.
Store hours are Tues – Sat, 11am – 4pm.
Check out @IntoTheFoldBookagami on Instagram.
Where are you on SanAnselmo? This is Nancy Bostwick. Been a long time. Hope to see you soon. I’ve recently retired in my antique business & also looking for volunteer work. Say hello to Julie!!
Hi Nancy
Haven’t seen you in ages but would love your help at Town Books! Your attention to detail, color and content would be a real asset in working with the art in the store. We are located at 411 San Anselmo Ave…where Riccardo’s used to serve great Italian food! Come see us…parking in lot on Pine St behind Bank building. I hope to see you soon! Sue