Great Expectations Book Store
 by Donna Fioto       

 
volume 1 issue 2
More than just an old curiosity shop, Great Expectations lives up to its name

When you walk through the door of  this great old house, look up. You might catch a glimpse of Miss Havisham peering down from the staircase in her faded wedding dress. It's only your imagination, of course, but go ahead and let your spirits wander. Relax and look around. You'll find plenty to delight your mind and body at Great Expectations.

A bookstore, cafe, gift shop, and gallery in an historic home

A bookstore, a cafe, a gift shop, and an art gallery. Great Expectations is all of these things, and a bit of history in downtown Logan. The house that is now Great Expectations was built in 1892 and remained in the hands of the original family until 1986. Today much of the beautiful woodwork and many of the original fixtures remain intact. "The house was in great shape when we bought it," says co-owner Melissa Brown. "We really had to do very little to it. " Melissa and co-owner Melinda Holland added a full espresso bar and a kitchen that features an Italian grill, but much of this old house is taken up by books, art, and gifts.

A reader's haven

Books are the main reason that Great Expectations exists. After the original bookstore in Logan closed, Melinda and Melissa opened another to fill the void, in their own creative fashion. Three rooms of books--titles for mature readers, children's titles, and used books--ensure that there's something for everyone. Readers of all ages can also participate in special programs at Great Expectations. Summer brings outdoor readings, story telling, and other creative activities for children.

At any time of the year, adults can meet and chat with their favorite authors or make new favorites at book signings. (When we last visited, author Rodney Cron was there to sign copies of his latest book, a murder mystery that takes place right here in southeastern Ohio. But, ssshhh--there's more on whodunit in another feature.) Great Expectations is a reader's haven to be sure, but books are not the only items that patrons will enjoy.

  

A shopper's delight

If you like to shop or just feel like browsing, you won't be disappointed. The walls and shelves of Great Expectations display many items of quality, much of which are the works of  local artists and artisans. If you're looking for a gift, it won't take long to find one that will soon become a cherished treasure for the recipient. Wouldn't it be fun to create a custom book bag for someone you know who loves to read? Or treat yourself. Buy a beautiful piece of handmade jewelry or choose an all-natural personal care product from Burt's Bees. For the home, there are photographs and paintings, stained glass, and much more to brighten any room. Many decorative and functional items are on display inside and outside, too, in the spring and summer months. Whatever the season, there is much that is imaginative at Great Expectations, including a menu that is every bit as tempting as the books, the art, and the gift items.

A tasty meal or a snack, and always the freshest cup of coffee in town

Delicious sandwiches are served on focaccia or your choice of bread or bun, warm from the Italian grill or chilled with chips and pickle. You'll find your favorites and be tempted by some new combinations and ingredients, including roasted red peppers, cucumbers, and grilled portabella mushrooms. There are also soups, fresh fruit and vegetable salads, and a menu for children. 

  

Great Expectations serves a variety of beverages, including the best cup of coffee in town. But why not try the espresso or cappuccino, plain or enhanced with delicious syrups and whipped cream. And be sure to have dessert. A local baker makes fresh treats daily, including tiramisu. (Note to chocolate lovers: Do not miss the caramel chocolate cake.) Frozen fruit smoothies are also on the menu--so delicious that you won't even know they're good for you, too. If you come by for breakfast, you can enjoy a bagel, toast, or homemade muffin with your coffee. Inside, Great Expectations has two rooms in which to dine, and in the warmer months, more tables are set outside in a grape arbor. Menu items are also available to take out, and Great Expectations delivers within the local area.

Always something new

Melissa and Melinda enjoy offering new products, and are dedicated to ensuring that Great Expectations lives up to its name every time that you visit. So stop by and get to know Great Expectations, or come back again and see what's new. 

Great Expectations is located at 179 S. Market St. in Logan, Ohio. Hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. Closed on Sunday. Credit cards are accepted.