Queen Bee Bookstore
An Ogden bookstore—Since the birth of e-books and the meteoric rise of Amazon, many have wondered if there is really a place for brick and mortar bookstores anymore.
But when I walk into The Queen Bee in Ogden, I don’t have to wonder.
The self-described “Giftery, Bookery, and Chocolaterie” not only has a place in Ogden’s downtown, it also helps hold the community together.
When Robyn Stark decided to take over the small store on 25th Street, she had a teaching license, a husband with an MBA, and a love for Ogden; but very little business experience.
She said of the opportunity to buy The Queen Bee, “It just came at the right time. I was a stay-at-home mom and I was looking to do something different. I loved Ogden and I wanted to be part of it.”
Robyn´s husband and the store’s original owner helped her learn the ropes of owning her own business. She also benefited from the tight-knit community of Ogden business owners.
“I would go to the other businesses on 25th Street when I had questions about the best way to do things.”
She is especially grateful for the women business owners in Ogden who have welcomed and helped her along the way.
For Robyn, community and commerce go together. “ I enjoy the camaraderie. Being part of this Ogden community—that’s really important to me.”
Paying it forward
The Ogden bookstore gives back to local schools, the Treehouse Museum, and other local organizations. Local artists and artisans also consign their wares.
“When you come into the store, you buy local twice: you’re supporting us and our business, but you’re also supporting these local consigners,” Robyn explained.
The Queen Bee Bookstore builds the community with every person who walks through the door. Robyn wants everyone to feel welcome. “We have a lot of regular customers, and I want my employees to know their names and ask how their families are doing.”
The employees also know their way around the merchandise.
Moran, whom Robyn describes as an avid reader, is always ready to make book recommendations and give reviews. The several employees have tried all of the chocolate and are happy to point out their favorites.
“We have a lot of small, unique things that make up our store, so when people ask what we sell here, it’s hard to give them one answer. Everything we get in is something one of us likes,” Moran said.
The Queen Bee has author events and chocolate tastings, and if you’re looking for a unique gift, they have you covered. They’ll even wrap it for you.
Queen Bee Bookstore
270 25th Street, Ogden
801-317-4226
