A new independent bookstore specializing in sci-fi and fantasy opened Aug. 30 in Riverside.
Gnoll’s Loot Table, located at 51 E. First St., offers new and used genre sci-fi and fantasy book titles in the town of Riverside, known as the future birthplace of Captain James T. Kirk from Star Trek.
Owner Noel Burns said the shop aims to create an inclusive space for readers of science fiction and fantasy.
“We built Gnoll’s Loot Table to be a cozy landing pad for readers,” Ms. Burns said in a release. “From space opera and epic fantasy to under-the-radar indie and self-published gems you won’t see in big-box stores, we want fans to discover great stories and feel right at home in our ‘comfort-geek’ community.”
The bookstore stocks classic and contemporary science fiction and fantasy titles, with an emphasis on independent and self-published works. The shop also purchases used books.
Gnoll’s Loot Table plans to host reading groups, author events and a monthly podcast called “theGnollcast” featuring book reviews and creator interviews.
“Riverside is already a pilgrimage for Star Trek fans,” Burns said. “It felt wrong that there wasn’t a bookstore here tailored to sci-fi and fantasy. We’re excited to help visitors and locals alike find their next adventure, right where the Trek begins.”
The store is open Tuesday through Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. and closed Mondays. Street parking is available.
Books can be ordered online at thegnoll.com. The store maintains social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram.
