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New Material Books is a Creative Hub in Kansas City’s West Bottoms
In the heart of Kansas City’s revitalized West Bottoms, a unique bookstore and art gallery has emerged, capturing the spirit of local creativity and connection. New Material Books, nestled within the historic Livestock Exchange Building, invites residents and visitors alike to explore a space designed not only for selling books but also for fostering community engagement and artistic expression.
From City Lights to Cozy Bookstore
Owners Hannah and Brandan Griffin made a leap from the bustling streets of New York City to the quieter charm of Kansas City in 2022. With experience working at various bookstores and a passion for unique literature, they envisioned a space that reflected their artistic sensibilities. As Brandan recalls, "While driving past the West Bottoms, the warm glow of the red brick buildings inspired us to start a bookstore." This spark of inspiration has blossomed into New Material Books.
More Than Just Books
Despite its compact size of just 250 square feet, New Material Books packs a punch with its eclectic selection. Visitors can find not only the usual assortment of poetry and prose but also eye-catching pieces like Alex Tretbar’s hand-stitched poetry collection and an interactive pop-up book that delves into the history of the alphabet. Every item on their shelves has a story, curated with intention and care.
Connecting with the Community
The Griffins have immersed themselves in Kansas City’s vibrant arts scene since their arrival. They have hosted engaging workshops and readings in various local galleries, allowing artists to showcase their work and connect with the community. “We realized New Material Books didn’t just have to be a storefront,” Hannah explains, reflecting on their evolution from booksellers to community facilitators. The recent “Wordmaking Workshop” encouraged attendees to reinvent language, illustrating their mission to promote creativity.
Upcoming Events and Exhibitions
As spring approaches, New Material Books is gearing up for a series of exciting events. A reading by author Henry Goldkamp is planned for February 28, which marks the beginning of a lineup designed to bring local literature to life. The ongoing series of artist talks will allow more Kansas City creatives to share their insights and recommendations, thereby creating an interactive platform for learning and discussion.
Supporting Local and Small Press Literature
New Material Books prides itself on its role as a distributor for small independent presses. By doing so, they offer editions that are often overlooked in larger bookstores. This commitment to supporting local and smaller publishers ensures that unique voices in literature don’t go unheard. As Brandan states, “It’s been a passion of ours; we like to keep a pulse on what’s going on in the world through books.”
Engage with Kansas City Culture
The Griffins aim to create a culture of engagement and discovery at New Material Books. Whether you’re a local artist, a poet, or just a lover of literature, there’s something for everyone in this intimate space. Schedule a visit on Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. to not only shop but also participate in their blossoming community initiatives.
If you have a story to share or want to contact us for more details about upcoming events at New Material Books, drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com. Let’s continue to support the heart of Kansas City’s creative community together!
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