Filling a niche

Most of us can remember a time when entering a small bookstore was a treat. Browsing through the shelves of varying genres and coming across an interesting book we never knew existed was a thrill. Thanks to two college friends, these homey businesses still thrive in the heart of downtown San Mateo.

B Street Books and Otter Books are among the few used bookstores in San Mateo County. Lew Cohen and Steve Feldman, both 53 years old, met years ago while attending Sacramento State University. Their friendship led to the two small bookstores located just blocks apart.

After retiring from a 20-year career as a private investigator, Cohen was ready for a change of pace. Cohen contacted Feldman, who has been selling books for 25 years, and proposed going into business together. Four years ago, they opened B Street Bookstore at 301 S. B St.

The two friends have roots in literature. Feldman’s mother, who often bought, sold and traded books at her leisure, inspired both her sons to open bookstores. Cohen, who studied English in college, said he always had a book going.

"I feel out of sorts if I don’t have a book lined up,” he said.

Initially, Cohen and Feldman jointly ran B Street Books for more than three years. In 2011, when M is for Mystery bookstore owner Ed Kaufman decided to retire, Feldman said he jumped at the opportunity to take over the location at 86 E. Third Ave. and turned it into Otter Books. Owned by Feldman, Otter Books continues to retain the aesthetics of the previous store including the skylights and mobile bookshelves that can be rearranged for special events.

Because the stores are located in a busy downtown near a movie theater, many customers happen upon the used book havens, or even go to the stores as a family outing. Over the summer Tammy Pile and her kids will go to a movie, have lunch and come and get a book.

"That was our activity,” she said.

A trip to the local bookstore is fun for parents as well. David Rios and his daughters are regular customers at B Street Books.

"I’m like a kid in a candy store. It’s pleasant to come into ... there’s always something to find. We just love it, it’s a nice little family outing for us,” Rios said.

Cohen, now solely running B Street Books, enjoys having a hearty children’s section. He and his wife Kelly believe reading is fundamental in a child’s development and success in school, said Cohen. With his wife’s help, they hold events where teachers bring their students to the store as a field trip, said Cohen.

Feldman’s Otter Books also holds various events. "Plink and Plunk,” a children’s concert, was recently held. Thrilled by the spacious store, he hopes to arrange more events that are, he said, "good for the community. I love the fact that I can do that.” Otter Books is one of many stores Feldman has run, including a store in Burlingame and Feldman’s Books in Menlo Park opened by Feldman and his brother Jack.

The two friends, who are no longer partners, feel no competition between them and happily refer each other to customers who don’t find what they’re looking for.

"We feel like there are a lot of readers in the area. … So I think the two stores in the end will help us,” said Cohen.

Neither Cohen nor Feldman view their stores in competition with larger sellers such as Barnes and Noble or the recently bankrupt Borders. Selling used books at cheap prices, out-of-print books and antique or collectible books sets them apart in a niche of their own.

The differences go beyond merchandise, said Feldman. At a local store, the customers have an impact.

"You can make a suggestion to the owner and … you can see your effect on it. In a way, I’m kind of growing the store in the way the customers want,” said Feldman.

Even with new electronic book readers, there are those who believe there’s still a large market for print books that cannot be replaced by new technology.

For Cohen, books are easier. You don’t have to worry about chargers, theft or damaging an expensive piece of technology. He questions the long-term practicality of e-book readers since technology is constantly changing.

"I bet in 100 years this nicely bound leather book printed on acid-free paper will still be able to be used, long after the Kindle is dust,” he said.

Both Cohen and Feldman sincerely appreciate the experience of visiting a small bookstore, looking around and finding a book that can inspire. Regardless of technological advancements, B Street Books and Otter Books exist because of the dedication and adoration of two book lovers.

"I’m glad I’m carrying on this selling of books, cause there’s really not that many people doing it anymore,” said Feldman.

Box info

B Street Books is open Sunday-Thursday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Friday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. They buy books Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday. To contact, call (650) 343-2800 or visit at 301 S. B St., San Mateo.

Otter Books is open Wednesday-Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. They buy books every day. To contact, call (650) 401-8077 or visit at 86 E. Third Ave., San Mateo.