For years, area book lovers have longed for a place to gather, browse, and get lost in the pages of a good story. Now, thanks to local resident Lauren Dutch, that dream is turning into reality. Story Books & Toys, an independent bookstore with a nostalgic 90s-era charm in Oakdale, is set to celebrate its official grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 5 at 1 p.m.
Dutch and her husband, both passionate readers, have spent the past four years bringing this vision to life. Inspired by their love of indie bookstores, they wanted to create a warm, inviting space where books and community come together.
“We always felt Oakdale, being such a beautiful, charming town, needed a bookstore,” Dutch said. “This dream was sparked from our own love of books and the joy we felt in small, independent bookstores wherever we traveled.”
A Bookstore with Heart and History
The store, located in a renovated historic building, offers a carefully curated selection of books across all genres, a special section for children, and a variety of toys—both handcrafted and traditional. Dutch envisions it as more than just a bookstore.
“We want people to slow down, to step away from the fast pace of life and reconnect,” she explained. “In the 90s, we didn’t have the distractions of constant notifications. There was more room for imagination, connection, and play. We want to bring that feeling back.”
To set the tone, Story Books & Toys embraces aesthetic touches that make it feel like stepping into the past—warm wood shelving, cozy reading nooks, and even a signature gift-wrapping service, a nod to the charming traditions of classic bookshops.
A Grand Opening with a Literary Twist
The grand opening celebration on April 5 will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, refreshments provided by a local caterer, and book-inspired drinks based on different genres, from fantasy to mystery. Dutch also hopes to invite local authors for book signings and readings in the future.
“Our goal is to make this a place where people gather, whether it’s for a book club, a reading event, or just to enjoy a quiet moment surrounded by books,” she said.
Looking Ahead: Building a Community Through Books
Dutch has big plans for the store’s future. She envisions hosting storytime sessions for children, book club meetings, and themed literary events to bring the community together. She also hopes to expand the shop’s offerings with a small outdoor patio where readers can relax with a book.
“I want this store to evolve based on what the people of Oakdale want,” Dutch said. “I want it to feel like their bookstore, a place where everyone belongs.”
For customers looking for a specific book, Story Books & Toys also offers special orders, with many titles available in as little as three days.
Come Be a Part of the Story
As Dutch reflects on the journey of opening Oakdale’s newest indie bookstore, she feels both humbled and excited.
“Every person who has walked through the doors has been so joyful to have a bookstore here,” she said. “That tells me Oakdale truly is a magical place, and I’m just grateful to be part of its story.”
Story Books & Toys is located at 150 S. Second Ave.
Hours: Monday–Tuesday: 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Wednesday–Friday: 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (expanding to 8 a.m. in May for the morning market)
For more information, call 209-352-6522
