Grand River's Literary Legacy: A History of Student Bookstores in East Lansing
East Lansing, home to Michigan State University (MSU), boasts a rich history of bookstores that have served generations of students, faculty, and community members. These establishments, ranging from cooperative ventures to independently owned shops, have played a vital role in the academic and cultural life of the city. This article explores the evolution of student bookstores in East Lansing, focusing on their origins, growth, and impact on the community.
The Genesis of the M.S.U. Bookstore: A Cooperative Beginning
The story of the M.S.U. Bookstore begins in November 1896, with the formation of the "Agricultural College Cooperative Book Buying Association," or C.B.B.A. This initiative was driven by a desire to alleviate the financial burden of attending college, rather than simply providing a convenient place to purchase books. The C.B.B.A. operated on a cooperative model, buying textbooks and school supplies in bulk and offering them to members at cost for a lifetime membership fee of seventy-five cents. Non-members, on the other hand, had to pay the full retail price. The association was an instant success, attracting a large membership and maintaining a healthy financial balance.
Initially, the bookstore occupied dormitory rooms in Williams Hall. However, as the school's enrollment and the store's business expanded, the need for a dedicated space became apparent. This need was met in 1902 with the construction of the new streetcar trolley station, which was designed to accommodate a waiting room, the post office, and the bookstore. By the fall term of 1903, the store had moved into its new home, and Lillian Kendall was hired as manager.
Transition and Transformation: From Cooperative to College-Operated
By 1912, the landscape had shifted. W. O. Hedrick proposed significant changes to the organization, including eliminating the "cooperative" aspect, vesting management in the faculty, and discontinuing the membership fee. While this proposal initially passed a faculty vote, it was later found that the new organization under faculty oversight was "too informal," with Hedrick continuing to shoulder most of the responsibilities.
In response, a new non-profit corporation, the Michigan Agricultural College Book Buying Association, was established in May 1912. As a non-profit, the bookstore continued to provide books and supplies to M.A.C. students and faculty at cost. Following a short stint with an interim manager after Miss Kintner's death in August 1916, Norma L. Ensign took over. In time for the start of fall term in 1919, the association moved to a storefront in the "Bank Block" (the 1917 East Lansing State Bank building) at 130 West Grand River Avenue.
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The new location offered more space and was closer to Central School, making it more accessible to grade school students. Norma Ensign continued to manage the store, even residing in the westernmost apartment on the building's second floor until her marriage in 1926. Reflecting the College's name change in 1925, the store became the M.S.C. Book Buying Association.
After years of success as a non-profit, the College assumed operation of the bookstore in September 1939, dissolving the non-profit corporation. While it is unclear whether prices increased immediately, it is unlikely that students continued to receive books at cost.
Expansion and Evolution: Adapting to Changing Times
In a surprising turn of events, a few months after the College took over the bookstore's assets, the State Sales Tax Commission presented a claim for over $11,000 in unpaid sales tax. However, this assessment was later cancelled. In September 1945, Norma Ensign Wagner retired after nearly twenty-nine years as manager.
Two years later, the bookstore relocated to the new annex of the Union Building, merging with the veterans' bookstore. By the early 1960s, M.S.U. was considering another addition to the Union Building to house activities of the Dean of International Programs and to expand the bookstore. Instead, in 1963, the International Center was built for that combined role. Nearly half of the $1.9 million construction cost-$875,000-came from the bookstore account, highlighting its significant financial success.
Student Book Store: A Landmark on Grand River
Student Book Store (SBS) opened in downtown East Lansing in 1960 in a 2,000 square-foot building right across the street from MSU. Now, SBS occupies more than 40,000 square feet of retail space at 421 E. Grand River Ave. It's become one of those MSU community landmarks as a destination for students, residents and sports fans alike.
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Howard and Vivian Ballein, along with a group of private investors, established SBS in 1960. The store has adapted to industry changes, such as the rise of textbook rentals, and the university's growth. According to Ballein, the store's success is rooted in its local focus and commitment to the community.
SBS offers a wide array of products and services, including textbooks, apparel, and memorabilia. They guarantee they have the right books for each class at Michigan State. Customers can save money by shopping early, renting textbooks, buying used books, and selling their books back.
Curious Book Shop: A Haven for Eclectic Readers
Since 1973, Curious Book Shop has been an iconic spot in downtown East Lansing. Ray Walsh, owner of the shop, began collecting and selling books out of his garage in 1969 to help pay for his education at Michigan State University.
Curious Book Shop specializes in science fiction/fantasy, pulp magazines, illustrated books, Michigan history, magazines and popular culture items. The shop's collection is eclectic and caters to all kinds of curious learners. Ray Walsh attributes the longstanding reputation of the stores to having good staff and employees.
The Enduring Appeal of Bookstores: More Than Just a Place to Buy Books
Bookstores like Jacobson's were more than just retail spaces; they were destinations for events and celebrations. People would visit for lunch, to select a wedding gown, or simply to enjoy the atmosphere. Jacobson's, in particular, was known for its gracious entryways, elegant detailing, and commitment to the downtown area.
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The East Room, Jacobson's tearoom, was a popular spot for its good food and lovely view of the campus. It even stayed open in the evenings after the store was closed. Nathan Rosenfeld, the owner of Jacobson's, was a principled man who believed in treating customers well and advocating for their needs.
Challenges and Transformations in the Retail Landscape
Jacobson's declared bankruptcy in 2002 due to a changing retail landscape and a shift away from its unique identity. The store became more like other retailers, losing its special appeal. Similarly, Ray Walsh acknowledges the challenges faced by independent bookstores in the current environment. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, he created a GoFundMe campaign to support his East Lansing book shops.
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