10/09/08

High quality children's books available in Arlington

by Beckye Randall

Residents in north Snohomish County will soon have access to a line of high quality, lavishly-illustrated children’s books that are featured at the famed FAO Schwarz toy store in New York.

Tasha Branch, owner of The Village Store at the former Country Charm Dairy at 604 E. Gilman Road in Arlington, said, “That’s right. FAO Schwarz and the Village Store--your one-stop shop for multicultural, high quality and earth-friendly children’s books and products.”

The colorful story books, featuring international folktales with environmental overtones, will be available at The Village Store beginning October 18, with the book launch coinciding with the Fall Farm Festival. During the weekend of October 18 and 19, farm-themed Barefoot Books will be priced at 25 percent off regular price.

“What I think is most exciting is our ability to help schools and other non-profits obtain free books,” Branch said. “Anyone who shops for Barefoot products through The Village Store can ask that their purchases be credited towards the school or group of their choice. Once per quarter, the school will be notified of its earned credit and will be able to pick out free books or products from the Barefoot line.”

The Village Store is committed to returning a minimum of 10 percent of all qualifying purchases in free books for schools. Teachers or groups will be able to register their classes individually or hold special book sales to reach a specific goal.

Branch chose to carry the Barefoot children’s book line at the local store because the company shares her core values, including its emphasis on creativity, diversity and an acceptance of the world’s many traditions. Barefoot Books also maintains a focus on environmentally-conscious production and distribution of its products.

Branch, whose development company Ronin Northwest is planning a major community project named Haller Point on the former Graafstra dairy farm property, said, “I was so excited when I found this opportunity because it is right in line with everything I am about, and that I want Haller Point to be about.”

For more information about the local Barefoot Books availability, contact The Village Store at (360) 435-1594 or visit www.barefoot-books.com.

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