Phila. gay bookstore Giovanni's Room marks 35 years

[Shana A]

Phila. gay bookstore Giovanni's Room marks 35 years

By Gail Shister
Inquirer Staff Writer

http://www.philly.com/philly/news/local/20081006_Phila__gay_bookstore_Giovanni_s_Room_marks_35_years.html

Months before he died in 1987, author James Baldwin showed up, unannounced, at Giovanni's Room, the gay bookstore named after his landmark homosexual love story from the mid-1950s.

"I was flabbergasted," owner Ed Hermance recalls. "He looked around, autographed some books. It was over in 10 minutes."

Ten minutes and 10 years, to be precise. That's how long Hermance and his former business partner, Arleen Olshan, had been after Baldwin to visit Giovanni's, a fixture at 12th and Pine Streets.

[NicholeW.]

It's a wonderful store with a fantastic staff and the categories are not limited to fluff or to highly intellectual items. Plus it's cozy and friendly. If you're in the Philly area go in. You'll not be sorry!!

Nikki