Hillsdale’s downtown bookstore Volume 1 Books has begun hosting weekly open mic nights on Friday evenings from 7p.m. to 11p.m.
Looking to draw college students, the bookstore offers a variety of snacks and beverages, including popcorn and coffee, and is bringing in local musicians in an attempt to encourage others to get in front of the microphone.
Located at 98 N. Broad Street, Volume 1 Books sells a variety of “used, rare and antiquarian books.” Students are able to spend time browsing the cozy store’s shelves, chock-full of curious stories and intriguing titles. The bookshop has large tables and ample seating, and, according to Hillsdale local Dennis Wainscott, would be the perfect place to study.
Volume 1 Books has housed occasional open mic nights over the past few years, and has only recently revived the event in hopes of facilitating a place for students and community members to meet where they can enjoy light-hearted fellowship and laid-back entertainment.
For those unconcerned with delivering a polished performance, karaoke is an option. The shop has hundreds of crowd pleasers to choose from, ranging from oldies to modern hits.
Owner Richard Wunsch invites Hillsdale College students to stop by and unwind after a hard week’s work, and encourages performers to bring an audience of friends.
A Volume 1 frequenter, John Eisenberg, has been playing the guitar for about twenty years and welcomes the opportunity to socialize and perform at open mic nights.
“Nobody’s perfect, we just enjoy each other’s company,” he said. “Come one, come all, and just come as you are.”
