Amidst the glow of dragon statues, a new chapter unfolded at Otto Bookstore as John Shableski, the general manager, addressed an eager crowd. The shelves, freshly stocked with books, set the stage for a significant milestone in the store’s history.
Shableski encouraged the attendees to assemble in the store’s main room, preparing for an eventful evening.
Exciting Expansion for First Friday
The newly expanded Otto Bookstore is set to welcome patrons during First Friday tonight in downtown Williamsport.
“Hello, people in the other space, please don’t leave us alone waiting for you,” Shableski playfully called out.
This expansion marks a historic moment for the bookstore, which has not seen such growth in over 180 years. Thursday night saw a special reception for community guests, but the doors are open for everyone tonight. Although expansion plans were announced in January, much of the construction came together in the last month.
“It’s been such an amazing experience going through this,” Shableski shared.
The bookstore has extended into a former bridal shop next door on West Fourth Street. A newly created doorway connects this new wing to the original store, featuring a mix of fiction, nonfiction bestsellers, and a checkout counter Shableski refers to as “the pulpit.”
Owner Kathryn Nassberg expressed her excitement despite the long hours spent preparing for the reopening. “I’m feeling a little bit tired from the work, but very excited about everything that’s happened,” she said. “We’ve been just thrilled at the turnout, the support, just everybody has been so excited for what we’re doing, and we’re excited in return to make something even better for the downtown area.”
Even with the progress visible for weeks, Nassberg was amazed by the transformation. “We’re lucky to have the people … that we do to help us get to where we need to be,” she added. “I could not be happier with how things have turned out.”
Welcoming the community, Lycoming County Commissioner Mark Mussina and State Rep. Jamie Flick were present for the event. Businesses from West Fourth Street and beyond contributed food and drinks for the evening.
Damon Lomison, alongside his brother Drew from Fair Play Distillers, offered cocktails to guests exploring the new space. Having frequented the bookstore for two decades, Damon shared his enthusiasm: “It’s fantastic,” he remarked. “We’re so glad to see them expanding and looking forward to seeing what new books they have to offer.”
