The year was 1993, and there I was, takin’ a bath with my seven-year-old toes pokin’ through the suds like miniature icebergs. The stress of second grade was no match for a hot soak, so that particular evening, I decided to max my relax by bringing a book into the tub. The exact title now escapes me, but I do vividly remember that it was: a) borrowed and b) a floater. In the realm of my privileged upbringing, the image of a loaned book suspended in water was trauma personified. One naked panic attack and thirty minutes later, I had blow-dried that novel into a hot mess best described as a literary perm. Needless to say, Ms. Simmons was less than pleased. Nineteen years later, I’m just glad it wasn’t a Kindle.
After lugging a mini-library around Europe, I understand and appreciate the appeal of the ebook. But, as a true believer in used books, I still prefer my read weathered, stained, dog-eared, and underlined. In other words, I prefer a little story with my story. For that reason and so many more, I am pleased to introduce the first installment of “Book It To…” on the Flying Salmon. By highlighting some of the Northwest’s best independent bookstores, it is my hope that locals and visitors will be better equipped to support the surviving strands of the PNW book scene. And, without further adieu, I proudly present: Left Bank Books.
In operation since 1973, Left Bank Books has become as iconic to Pike Place Market as the smell of wafting fish. Located in Seattle near the corner of First and Pike, Left Bank defines itself as a collectively run anarchist bookstore. As opposed to to your Borders or Barnes & Noble, all decisions at Left Bank are made during bi-monthly collective meetings based on a consensus process. As a result, asking to “speak with a manager” will not get you far at Left Bank. Owned and operated by its workers, Left Bank has no bosses or managers.
In contrast to the chaos that anarchy often implies, Left Bank offers a quiet, calm, and organized space. The shelves are neatly lined with subject matter often categorized as radical or progressive: queer studies, labor history, animal liberation and feminism to name a few. The person behind the counter – whether one of the store’s six paid members or a weekly volunteer – can help you navigate the unique smattering of periodicals and local zines. And, because the liberal agenda also includes food and procreation, Left Bank provides more mainstream reads for those looking to diversify their selection of kids books and cook books.
Also, if you’re cleaning out your anarchist closest, Left Bank accepts items on consignment and will happily donate to the Books to Prisoners program. My purchase of the day? Just Kids by Patti Smith. I’m happy to report that my copy has already changed hands. Let the stories continue.