The cozy atmosphere of Two Story Books and Coffeehouse is now buzzing with literary ambition, as the team sets its sights on reading 250 books this year.
Two Story Books and Coffeehouse, located near downtown Statesboro, is launching a new staff reading challenge to boost excitement around reading in the community all year long.
With a bold, community-centered goal, the local bookstore and coffee shop hopes its team will collectively read 250 books this year.
Olivia Higginbotham with Fearful by Lauren Roberts
For the entire team, including staff members Olivia Higginbotham and Trevor Wright, the challenge is about much more than hitting a number. It’s about curiosity, creativity, and inviting the entire community of Statesboro to read along.
“We believe that people are much happier and healthier if they’re blossoming in their creativity,” Trevor shared. “Some people are creative with music, some with visual arts, and some through their imagination when they read or talk with friends.”
The challenge itself is intentionally low-pressure. The 250-book goal reflects what the team accomplished last year, encouraging staff to read what they can, enjoy the process, and share it. Through Instagram and Facebook stories, staff members post snapshots of the books they finish, sparking conversation and recommendations from followers. Community members regularly chime in with suggestions, sometimes nudging staff far outside their comfort zones.
Trevor even traveled to New York to buy an autographed copy of a book recommended to him in a comment, one he called phenomenal and unexpected.
Trevor Wright with A Book of Common Prayer by Joan Didion.
Soon, staff will also begin sharing short reviews, making the experience even more interactive. For those who feel too busy to read, Trevor offers a gentle reminder: start small. “Ten minutes a day adds up,” he said. “Making that habit small and manageable.”
Ultimately, Two Story hopes the challenge inspires exploration without pressure. “You can really just let your imagination run wild,” Trevor shared. “Follow us as we do what we think is cool […] and we think reading is awesome.”
To keep up with their challenge, keep an eye on their Facebook or Instagram. Happy reading!
