Jen Todderud and Brooke Heffernan have been friends for many years. They’ve gone on vacations together, joined book clubs together, and over dozens of times sitting on the couch with a glass of wine, the two have shared their ideas and dreams of owning a bookstore.
Chapter Book Lounge at 996 Conner Street is their dream come true.
“It had been in the back of our minds, and then this space popped up and we just thought this was an opportunity,” said Heffernan. “Why not pursue it and see if other people like what we like?”
At their grand opening in early October, the line was out the door and around the building.
“I couldn’t even comprehend that everyone was here for this,” Todderud said. “We feel so honored that others feel the same way, and have taken the time to support us and stop by and check it out. We’re really excited.”
The ladies have created a space where everyone is welcome, and you don’t necessarily have to love books to find your spot at the Chapter Book Lounge.
They are in the building that many remember as the old clock shop, and even have an old clock of their own, paying homage to the popular shop.
Large windows and cozy seating areas in nooks throughout create the perfect spot to curl up and read for a while. They also have a big couch, large table and plenty of extra chairs, allowing space for book clubs and other groups to gather.
Along one wall of the building is a large bar with comfortable stools, serving everything from coffee to cocktails.
“Everyone has their preferences,” Heffernan said. “Some will like the aesthetic, some will like a specific cocktail, and others stopped in because a friend invited them. We’re happy to facilitate a lot of different outlets and interests.”
In addition to a reading, meeting and socializing space, they carry products any avid reader would enjoy.
“We have gifts like spa products, candles, games and puzzles,” Todderud said. “Our vision is to be a third space for community, where we can connect over ideas, coffee, cocktails, learning and a love for all of those things.”
There’s a membership program providing discounts, monthly perks and invitations to special events – and that will come in handy once they get their event calendar posted with all of the ideas the women have thought of, and more to come.
“We’re planning author meet-and-greets and signings, book clubs, book and cocktail pairings, and expert panels to tackle a popular theme in a new book,” Todderud said. “Really, the sky is the limit in terms of what we can do. There’s a real craving for that connection.”
Chapter Book Lounge is a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (or DORA) approved location in Noblesville, and for those wondering, the two say they’re both avid readers and enjoy many different genres and writing styles, making them a great source for your next selection.
Most of all, their doors are open and they’re creating a space for the entire community to enjoy.
“It’s whatever you want it to be,” Todderud said. “We’ve seen people coming in solo and others working on a group project. At night it’s getting to be a very social place. We hope we’ve filled a big gap here without a local bookstore available in town.”
Visit chapterbooklounge.com for more information, and follow them on social media for event updates and opportunities.