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Westchester Welcomes New Bookstore

CHAPPAQUA, N.Y. -- Book lovers in Westchester have a new place to call home.

Laura Schaefer, owner of Scattered Books in Chappaqua, with her pet rabbit.

Laura Schaefer, owner of Scattered Books in Chappaqua, with her pet rabbit.

Photo Credit: Sam Barron

Laura Schaefer, a Briarcliff resident who grew up in Tarrytown, opened her new bookstore Scattered Books in Chappaqua in November. Schaefer, a children's book author, aims to turn her King Street location into a meeting place for residents.

"People have been very supportive and offering suggestions," Schaefer said.

While Amazon remains the dominant bookseller, Schaefer said people still enjoy going to bookstores and perusing books.

"There are a lot of people who want their kids to read regular books," Schaefer said. "When you read off a screen, there is less comprehension. There's that experience of reading and relaxing, of holding a book. We also gift wrap a lot better than Amazon."

Prior to opening Scattered Books, Schaefer was well known for her award winning series "The Crumbles Chronicles: Tales Of A Nervous Dog", which was about her nervous rescue dog who protects his family. Schaefer has also written three picture books.

Schaefer said she wants Scattered Books to be a place for creativity. The store hosts birthday parties and is hosting an event for Girl Scouts. Scattered Books also involves its rabbit in events, allowing kids to compose and read stories to the rabbit.

Westchester authors have also found a home at Scattered Books and the store regularly hosts author events. Recent authors to appear include Gary Myers and Lee Child.

"We want to be a place where local authors can share their work," Schaefer said.

Scattered Books has even received a seal of approval from Chappaqua's most famous residents, Bill and Hillary Clinton.

Bill Clinton, who has spoke of his love of local bookstores, came into the store and bought several books.

"He's very smart," Schaefer said. "I wouldn't want to face him on Jeopardy."

Hillary Clinton bought a work of historical fiction and Schaefer gave her a copy of the children's book "Madam President."

The most popular books right now are "An Italian Wife," "When Breath Becomes Air," "The Nightingale," and "The Day The Crayons Came Home," Schaefer said.

Scattered Books is at 29 King Street. For more information, visit http://www.scatteredbooks.com/ or call 914-529-8013.

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