Indie Bookstore Spotlight: Beaverdale Books

Our October 2025 box is themed to the state of Iowa and we collaborated with indie bookstore Beaverdale Books. Located in Des Moines, Beaverdale Books opened in 2006.

Most indie bookstores proudly support local authors, but Beaverdale Books takes it to a whole new level. They have a local authors section with over five hundred Iowan authors represented. I'm not aware of another indie bookstore that supports such a large number of local authors. It's incredible! In addition to selling the local author books, they host author events, readings, and writer's groups.

Community is at the heart of Beaverdale Books' mission. The "Partners" section on the their website has an extensive list of stores and organizations that they promote. Many of these small businesses are local, such as a travel agent and a florist. I love that the travel agent is promoted as being able to help you travel to locations that you read about in books. How wonderful is that? We may be doing an arm chair roadtrip with the Literary Road Trip subscription, but if you're looking for an actual travel agent that is endorsed by an indie bookstore, you should reach out.

Annie's Foundation is one of the organizations listed as a partner. This Des Moine area mom's group was formed to push back against groups trying to ban books in their school district. It was formed in 2021, and although the organization is a local group, I feel that their website provides useful information regarding the wider book ban trend that is happening around the United States. Please take a look at Annie's Foundation and show some support towards their mission. It's important.

Another parter that I thought was notable is the feminist podcast Broads and Books. This podcast features Amy and Erin, two friends discussing books and pop-culture. Beaverdale Books has a store display to highlight the books featured on the podcast.

Need a book recommendation? The Beaverdale Books website is filled to the brim with suggestions. Check out their staff page to see what their booksellers are currently reading or peruse their book recommendations page. Like baseball? They have a curated list on baseball books. Or maybe you're looking for a beach read or something for Earth Day? Check it out and find books to add to your ever growing TBR pile.

In the October box we included Beaverdale Books' store logo sticker and their bookmark. Please visit this fantastic indie. If you don't live close to Des Moines, you can shop through their website or explore their Instagram page.