In recent years, Greensboro has established itself as a menagerie of indie shops and laid-back restaurants with a cool, artistic vibe. People shop at Glitters, Design Archives and Mary’s Jewelry Box for trinkets they can’t find anywhere else and the kind of community that only comes from independent ownership. The latest addition in this collection is Scuppernong Books, a brand new book store and coffee shop at 304 Elm.

I attended the grand opening of the indie store and was delighted to see the latest and greatest in the downtown community. The store not only has a unique collection of hand-picked books and graphic novels, but also sells wine, beer, coffee and local food. The kids’ section has toys and chairs for leisurely reading, and the back doubles as a stage for live music, poetry readings and other cool events the store puts on.

“It just felt really comfortable and friendly,” said Greensboro local Lindsay Richardson, who attended the grand opening.

It’s true; the atmosphere of the store fits in well with the downtown feel. Much like other coffee shops, such as the Green Bean, Scuppernong displays and sells local art to lend their support to other local businesses. It’s easy to see that they’re already closely connected in the community, with events from Elsewhere, local menu items and independent authors from the Greensboro area. It feels like buying from a friend.

“What I am most excited by at Scuppernong books is the respect you pay by your book selection to a wide range of community members, from African-American to the LGBT community,” posted Todd Drake on the Scuppernong Facebook page. “Thank you for the even-handedness of your inclusion.”

Scuppernong is one of many downtown stores and restaurants that lend a hand to equality. Last year Golden Spiral, Crafted, Fahrenheit Kollectiv, Green Bean and Elsewhere teamed up to show their support for the LGBTQ community.

It seems, in many ways, our new hole in the wall will fit right in.