Author Emma Straub opens Carroll Gardens bookstore to counter loss of Book Court

Like many other Brooklyn residents, author Emma Straub was heartbroken when Boerum Hill’s beloved Book Court ended its 35-year run when the building sold to developer Eastern Capital for $13.6 million. However, its moment like these that often spark people to action which is just what happened for Straub. “We needed to offer people a rope to hold onto,” she told Domino during an interview, which is precisely what prompted her to open Books Are Magic in Carroll Gardens.

The store occupies a former clothing store at at 225 Smith Street and is just as easy on the eyes as it is practical. Domino was invited in for an exclusive first look of the industrial-chic store and to chat with Straub about the process of launching a bookstore in just a short amount of time.

It was only six months ago when Straub and her husband decided to open a bookstore, but somehow the couple managed to get it done in time for a soft launch that coincides with today’s Independent Bookstore Day. With the help of designer and personal friend Matthew Maddy, the space was constructed to bring their vision to life and even sourced shelves from Book Court.

Along with selling books, the store also sells items from Magnetic Fields, where the couple both worked for many years. Beginning May 9th, the store will host several events throughout the duration of the summer.

Books Are Magic will officially open on Monday, May 1.

Max Touhey for Domino.

• First Look: Inside Emma Straub's New Brooklyn Bookstore [Domino]
• Books Are Magic [Official]
• Beloved Brooklyn bookstore BookCourt sells for $13.6M [Curbed]