The store initially opened under the name Horizontal Books by owner David Kallevig in 2008.  The operation was multifaceted with a primary focus on online sales alongside in store foot traffic.  The store also has always had a unique pricing structure.  The first book is 50% off the retail price, 60% off two books, and 70% off three or more books.  This is made possible by keeping dozens of suppliers specializing in different subjects with a lot of the books being overstock or remainder titles.  The layout is also unique in that the books are stacked horizontally on large, homemade plywood shelves.  This makes it easier to read the spines as well as maximizes space.  

The store concept changed in October 2021 with the addition of a specialty coffee shop and new partner Austin Fedor. Austin saw a need for a cozy specialty coffee shop on one of Ohio City’s liveliest streets. The remodeling process was labor intensive and took roughly eight months to complete. The coffee addition opened in July 2022 to a great response. The multi roaster concept is our way of highlighting coffee roasters doing exceptional work around the globe, offering both exotic and approachable varieties.