The Book Loft

Now in its 30th year, The Book Loft is the legacy of my husband, the late Bill Nelson. A former business executive from Ohio lending a hand to a struggling bookstore there discovered a whole new lifestyle for himself. My name is Sue and this is the beginning of our adventure in Amelia Island.

Bill created an "old-fashioned" bookstore where people can browse and enjoy a beautiful collection of books. Our customers become nostalgic when they approach the store slowly, stand and stare at what they have missed. After Bill's death in 2011, I jumped in with both feet to sustain the operation despite the economic downturn and bleak outlook for indie bookstores. I haven't looked back! Our customers are loyal, the Amelia Island visitors are generous, and we have flourished as the island's oldest, locally-owned, independent bookstore.

Leveraging partnerships with the community lends to our success. We frequently support and collaborate with the Fernandina Public Library and the Amelia Island Book Festival.

But the biggest asset to an independent bookstore is its people. I attribute our success to our team who has a deep knowledge of the inventory and a commitment to serving the reader inviting us to expand their world – one book at a time.

Celebrating 30 years, The Book Loft is is the oldest independent bookstore on Amelia Island - located in the heart of historic Fernandina Beach