In the heart of Union Square, a new bookstore is breathing life into San Francisco’s retail landscape, and it’s not your typical Silicon Valley venture. Paul Carr and Sarah Lacy, former tech journalists turned unexpected booksellers, are transforming an empty storefront into a beacon of local entrepreneurship.

After successfully launching their first bookstore in Palm Springs during the pandemic, the couple decided to tackle San Francisco’s challenging retail environment. Surprisingly, they found the process remarkably smooth, thanks to city initiatives like PermitSF and the Vacant to Vibrant program that are actively supporting small businesses.

Their bookstore, aptly named “The Best Bookstore in Union Square,” represents more than just another retail space. It symbolizes the city’s resilience and commitment to revitalizing downtown areas. Despite widespread narratives about San Francisco’s decline, Carr and Lacy see a different story – one of renewal and community-driven transformation.

Their success isn’t an anomaly. Independent bookstores are experiencing a nationwide renaissance. The American Booksellers Association reported 323 new bookshops in 2024, with 200 new members – the most in decades. Print books continue to sell in impressive numbers, challenging digital-first predictions.

For Carr and Lacy, this venture is more than a business; it’s a passionate commitment to preserving literary culture. Their store joins a growing ecosystem of local businesses in Union Square, including Dandelion Chocolate and Just for Fun toy store, signaling a shift from corporate retail to community-focused enterprises.

As they prepare for their grand opening, the couple remains refreshingly humble. “We’ll probably just be lying on the floor, exhausted but excited,” Carr jokes. Their story is a testament to San Francisco’s enduring spirit of innovation and resilience – proving that with the right support and vision, urban renewal is possible.

The Best Bookstore in Union Square isn’t just selling books; it’s selling hope for a vibrant, locally-driven urban future.