The Bookery: Cleveland’s beloved bookstore
When people search for a bookstore, they seek joy, comfort, and peace - a place that feels like a reset from the world. Located in downtown Cleveland, The Bookery brings those ideas to life.
The Bookery's journey did not start at the house on North Ocoee Street, though. Owners Ashley Bramlett and Maddy Morris first dreamed of owning a bookstore in middle school.
“The Bookery was always a dream we had, but it felt like it wasn’t really going to happen. After we graduated high school, it stayed on the back burner - just another inspiration on our Pinterest board,” Bramlett said.
Though the dream once seemed out of reach, the pair held onto it.
“This dream is my dream and every girl's. It's basically a Hallmark movie dream,” Bramlett said.
As they built relationships with small business owners and the managers of the Bradley Square Mall, an unexpected opportunity appeared.
“A manager approached us and told us about a space that was low risk, and it was an opportunity we just couldn’t turn down,” Bramlett said.
Although the Bradley Square Mall is not a big mall, Bramlett and Morris recognized its potential and decided to open their first location there. Over time, their hard work paid off, and a new opportunity presented itself: a property on North Ocoee Street became available. The previous owner sold the property to them but also offered the first two months rent free.
With their move to North Ocoee Street, The Bookery quickly became a cherished spot for locals and Lee students. Its popularity grew not only through its cozy ambiance, but also through its homemade treats baked fresh daily, used books, free books from the Imagination Library, coffee, and homemade jewelry. There is one product in particular that has become extremely popular.
“If we don’t have our cinnamon rolls made or any left, I feel like I’m going to get burned at the stake,” Ashley joked.
Morris’s mother, Jeni Mauldin is affectionately known as “Shop Mama.”
“I love working at the bookstore, and I am so proud to support my daughter Ashley and her beloved friend Maddie in this dream,” Mauldin said.
While The Bookery has already enjoyed success, Bramlett and Morris eagerly anticipate the years ahead. As they look forward, the pair hopes to quietly spark joy and curiosity in the Cleveland community, one visit at a time.
Photos by Emma Sargent.
