As Thanksgiving week arrives — and as downtown Van Buren prepares for Friday night’s Christmas Tree Lighting — there’s no better place to settle in with a warm drink and a good story than Chapters on Main, the independent bookstore + coffee shop right in the heart of Main Street.

 

If you’ve ever walked inside on a chilly morning, you know the feeling. Soft lights. The smell of espresso. Rows of books that practically invite you to slow down, breathe, and enjoy the moment. It’s a place that feels like home… even if it’s your first visit.

 

A Third Place Built for Community

 

Founded by Debbie and Alan Foliart in 2016 and now owned by Alison Goodwin, Chapters on Main has always been about more than books and coffee.

 

Their mission has stayed the same:

create a “third place” where people feel seen, welcomed, and connected.

 

And it’s worked.

 

Chapters has hosted:
• Bible studies
• Book clubs
• Homework meetups
• Study groups
• Casual date nights
• Work-from-here mornings
• And countless friendships formed between the stacks

 

It’s the kind of small-town community spot that doesn’t just sell coffee — it shapes memories.

 

Holiday Drinks, Onyx Coffee, and Cozy Corners

 

Chapters serves Onyx Coffee, handcrafted by a talented brew crew, along with teas, hot chocolate, cider, and seasonal treats perfect for Thanksgiving week.

 

Whether you’re meeting visiting family, grabbing a break from holiday errands, or looking for somewhere warm before the Van Buren Tree Lighting on Friday, Chapters adds that nostalgic Main Street charm you can’t manufacture.

 

And if you need last-minute Thanksgiving reads, holiday gift ideas, or something to bring a smile to someone’s face — the shelves are stocked with new and used books, plus a special spotlight on local authors.

 

Why We’re Featuring Them This Week

 

As the holiday season kicks off, Chapters feels like the perfect reminder of why we love the River Valley: local shops, friendly faces, warm drinks, and a sense of togetherness you can’t order online.

 

So grab a latte, browse the shelves, settle into a cozy nook, and enjoy one of the sweetest small-town spots in the region.

 

And now… we need your help for next week:

 

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⭐ Tell Us Your Favorite Café or Bakery!

 

We’re putting together a Reader-Picked Holiday Coffee & Treat Guide, and we want to feature your go-to spots next.

 

👉 Drop your favorite café or bakery on our Facebook post
(or reply to this email)

 

We’ll count the votes and spotlight the top places in next week’s issue of River Valley Fork!

 

Let’s show some love to the amazing local businesses that keep our cups full and our holiday spirits high. ❤️☕🍰