Just over a year ago Rossland welcomed two new owners to Café Books on Washington St.
The couple, Evans and Laura Rora, moved here from Romania for something new without ever being in the business of books before.
The whole family has always loved books and for that reason felt comfortable taking over the store in Rossland.
“The purpose is not the profit but to do something that we really like,” said Evans.
A year prior to their arrival into Canada their daughter, who will be attending Crowe this fall as a Grade 12 student, traveled to Rossland as an international student for the ski racing program.
After doing well both academically and athletically, her parents made the bold move of leaving their home and taking over the book store in Rossland to stay together as a family.
“I arrived (in Canada) on Friday and started business on Monday,” said Evans.
One of their worries upon arrival was getting to know people in the community but that has all changed now.
“We find that Rossland people receive us wonderfully…it’s creating a connection with the newcomers without even knowing it…After one year I can already say that it is a wonderful place to be,” said Evans.
Their success has led to customers from other communities requesting a second location.
It is very big news then, that after several requests the couple intends on opening up another shop in Castlegar within the next two months.
“This is a successful business especially for small communities,” explained Evans.
With their new shop in Castlegar the couple hopes to improve upon a few key concepts such as increasing the area for moms and children, a study area including more study books, an art and crafts section as well as including stationary items, toys and gifts to sell.
The couple is very excited about opening up in a new location but intend on staying in Rossland.
Café Books is open seven days a week from 8:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. for anyone interested in going in and seeing what all the fuss is about.