Photo Story
For my photo story, I visited a local business in State College, PA called Webster’s Bookstore. Webster’s has been running since 1974 and plays an important role for the community as a small business that competes with big corporations in the area such as Starbucks and Dunkin’ Donuts. I wanted to capture what Webster’s offers that big name companies do not in hopes to raise awareness for supporting local small businesses.
While a large demographic is mostly student based, faculty and local residents are also seen throughout the day enjoying their time at Webster’s. Events such as open mic night, tango dancing, and live musical performances bring in everyone from the community. Not only does Webster’s serve delicious drinks and food, but has a massive collection of books and records for one to purchase or read while visiting the store. Webster’s also sells a large portion of books online through Amazon and other similar sites. When speaking to Jason Crane the store manager, he informed me of all the charity work they do by donating books to inmates and organizations like the AAW.
After visiting Webster’s you can see how they are apart of something bigger. A small business that is still thriving after 41 years and gives so much back to the community is a prime example of a smaller businesses need to be supported. They aren't running their business trying to make mass profits but to give people a safe haven full of great food, music, and literature to spread to others and share expression and hobbies.
While a large demographic is mostly student based, faculty and local residents are also seen throughout the day enjoying their time at Webster’s. Events such as open mic night, tango dancing, and live musical performances bring in everyone from the community. Not only does Webster’s serve delicious drinks and food, but has a massive collection of books and records for one to purchase or read while visiting the store. Webster’s also sells a large portion of books online through Amazon and other similar sites. When speaking to Jason Crane the store manager, he informed me of all the charity work they do by donating books to inmates and organizations like the AAW.
After visiting Webster’s you can see how they are apart of something bigger. A small business that is still thriving after 41 years and gives so much back to the community is a prime example of a smaller businesses need to be supported. They aren't running their business trying to make mass profits but to give people a safe haven full of great food, music, and literature to spread to others and share expression and hobbies.