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A novel bookstore

by Virginia Rasch — January 09, 2015

Evans Rora (owner) and his wife, Laura, standing in front of Cafe Books West in Castlegar. — Evans Rora photo

A “full-service” bookstore opened in Castlegar in late October. Owner Evans Rora emigrated with his family from Romania one year ago and opened a bookstore in Rossland. A year later, he’s expanding by opening Café Books West in the Castlegar downtown core. The operation includes a bistro, a gift store and a playground in the rear of the store. “Mothers have a place to go with their kids,” said Rora, who believes this children-friendly store model is the way to go in a small community. Most days one or two customers are lined up at the door when it opens at 9 a.m. “It’s a dream business,” Rora said.

Virginia is a writer and editor with KPI Media. She is an avid outdoor recreationist in all seasons and has lived in the Kootenays for over 15 years. With degrees in the natural sciences, she has worked as a tour guide, an environmentalist, a writer, and an editor of books and scientific publications. Virginia now brings her passion for everything green to KootenayBiz. View all of Virginia Rasch’s articles