In this episode of The Photo Detective, Maureen Taylor welcomes historian Evan Friss, author of The Bookshop: A History of the American Bookstore. Friss dives deep into the evolution of bookstores in America—from colonial times to the digital age. He shares fascinating insights into their cultural, political, and communal roles throughout history.

Early American bookstores were cultural and political hubs, vital for disseminating revolutionary ideas and classic literature, despite also selling sundry items.
Bookstores evolved from general goods shops to genre-specific havens—feminist, radical, and neighborhood staples—such as NYC’s famous “Book Row.”
Bookstores act as “third spaces,” offering connection, events, and literary engagement beyond just book sales.
Independent bookstores face small profit margins, rising ebook popularity, and competition from Amazon, yet persist through innovation and community support.

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Evan Friss
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About My Guest:
Evan Friss is a professor of history at James Madison University and the author of two other books: The Cycling City: Bicycles and Urban America in the 1890s and On Bicycles: A 200-Year History of Cycling in New York City. He lives with his wife (a bookseller) and two children (occasional booksellers) in Harrisonburg, Virginia.

About Maureen Taylor:
Maureen Taylor, The Photo Detective® helps clients with photo related genealogical problems. Her pioneering work in historic photo research has earned her the title “the nation’s foremost historical photo detective” by The Wall Street Journal and appearances on The View, The Today Show, Pawn Stars, and others. Learn more at Maureentaylor.com

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A History of the American Bookstore with Author Evan Friss