Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Valinda Miller. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

VALINDA, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

My story and mission is both inspiring and deeply touching. It beautifully illustrates the transformative power of books and the profound impact they can have on a person’s life. From humble beginnings in Athens, Georgia, and the challenging circumstances of my early life, I found solace and inspiration within the walls of a library. My grandmother’s dedication and the kindness of a librarian ignited a lifelong passion for literacy and the pursuit of knowledge.

My journey, from volunteering at libraries across various states to securing a stable career with the Federal Government, showcased my resilience and determination. With my grandmother’s foresight in encouraging me to seek a stable job with benefits has clearly paid off, allowing me to secure a future while pursuing my true passion and mission—spreading the love of books.

The purchase and subsequent relocation of my first bookstore, The Booksmith, bookstore to Goose Creek, aptly named “Turning Page Bookshop,” is a testament to my unwavering commitment to this mission.

I am a reminder of the importance of literacy and access to books as tools for empowerment and education. By ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to hold a book in their hands, I am not only honoring my grandmother’s (She was not allowed to go to libraries in Georgia because she was black) legacy but also making a significant contribution to the fight against ignorance and the promotion of knowledge in society. My dedication and efforts are and will undoubtedly make a difference in the lives of many.

VALINDA, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

The journey of owning and operating a bookstore is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding endeavor, as exemplified by The Turning Page Bookshop in Goose Creek, SC. This independent bookstore, the only African American-owned bookstore in South Carolina, was established by me in 2019, following the closure of her previous bookstore, The Booksmith, in Seneca, SC. The decision to move and rebrand the store came with its own set of challenges, especially given that the transition occurred just six months before the COVID-19 pandemic struck. Nonetheless, the mission has always been clear: to provide access to books for all, inspired by my grandmother’s experience of being denied entry into libraries.

Running a bookstore is no small feat, especially when faced with the dual challenges of meeting customer needs and maintaining financial sustainability. Myself, with the support of my best friend and store manager, Arrylee Satterfield, has navigated these obstacles with resilience and determination. One of the most critical lessons I’ve learned, influenced by the teachings of the Dave Ramsey group, is to avoid debt and never give up. The financial strains from my first store taught me the importance of managing finances prudently. By adhering to a strict regimen of paying down debt and avoiding new credit, I have successfully reduced the debt from $251,000 to $67,000, a testament to commitment and strategic financial planning.

The Turning Page Bookshop aims to serve as more than just a bookstore; it aspires to be a cornerstone of the community. Offering a wide range of books, from popular new releases to classic literature, and hosting events such as author readings and knitting circles, the bookstore fosters a love for reading and community engagement. By closely monitoring customer interests and adapting inventory accordingly, I can ensure that the store remains relevant and appealing to its patrons. The vision for The Turning Page Bookshop is not just to survive but to thrive and expand, continuing to provide invaluable access to literature and serving as a vital community hub in Goose Creek.

Can you talk to us about your experience with buying businesses?

My journey into the book trade showed how much resilience and determination needed to succeed in a challenging industry. Starting as a civil servant and a dedicated volunteer in libraries, I made a significant leap by moving to South Carolina and immersing myself in the world of books. I became involve with the Charleston Library Board to my passion for literature and community service. Attending a seminar to understand the intricacies of bookstore operation demonstrates your commitment to mastering the business.

Taking over an independent bookstore in Seneca was a bold move, one that came with substantial risks and learning curves. Transitioning to a cash-only business model was a strategic decision, albeit one met with resistance. Despite the initial setbacks and the departure of several employees, including a trusted store manager, I found a loyal and supportive manager who stood by my side through thick and thin.

The move to Goose Creek and the establishment of Turning Page Bookshop, in June 2019, right before the pandemic, highlights the adaptability and tenacity I had to pull up quickly.

Throughout the pandemic, my manager and I faced numerous challenges, from economic downturns to the closure of neighboring small businesses. Yet, we kept praying, keeping our fait and a proactive approach in reaching out to people and organizations kept us going. A powerful story of perseverance, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to my passion. It speaks volumes about your dedication to never stop and never settle, no matter the obstacles.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Since I was a young girl, books have been my steadfast companions, opening countless doors for me. From the moment I first encountered them, they have entertained, informed, educated, and inspired me. They have transported me back in time, whisked me off to the future, and revealed the intricacies of society, civilization, and the world. Books have not only provided solace and adventure but have also equipped me with the clarity and judgment needed to navigate the complex issues of our times. Their influence on my life has been profound, and the idea of one day owning a bookstore seemed like a distant dream, an almost impossible ambition.

Despite the daunting prospect, the idea of owning a bookstore kept resurfacing in my mind. It was a leap of faith, but I felt compelled to explore the possibility of making this dream a reality. As a fiercely proud Black woman, I envisioned a bookstore that would spotlight the works of talented and acclaimed African American, Native American, Mystery, Children, Christian, and other authors. My goal was to extend their reach, bringing their voices to a broader segment of our community and the American reading public at large. I imagined creating a haven where diverse literary works could be celebrated and appreciated, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of different cultures and perspectives.

More than just a business venture, my bookstore would be a beacon of enlightenment and empowerment. I aspire to inspire young Black women and men to awaken to the importance of nourishing their minds and spirits with the wealth of knowledge that books provide. By encouraging them to move beyond the superficial and misleading, I hope to instill a love for reading that fosters growth, understanding, and a deeper connection to our rich cultural heritage. Through my bookstore, I aim to create a space where literature serves as a catalyst for personal and communal transformation, enriching lives and broadening horizons. To be resilient is to keep your faith and take one step at a time. One step at a time.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://turningpagebookshop.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/turningpagebookshop/
• Twitter: https://x.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2Fturningpagesc
• Other: TIKTOK – https://www.tiktok.com/@turningbooks

Image Credits

VaLinda Miller