Of Moose and Mind Bookshop opens in Manlius

The name of the new Manlius bookshop, Of Moose and Mind, originally came from an Air Force call sign. Owner of the shop, Mark Browning, took on the call sign “Moose” while flying F-16s in the United States Air Force. The other part of the name comes from his favorite author, John Steinbeck, who wrote the classic Of Mice and Men. Browning decided to combine the two and the bookshop’s name was born.

Monica Browning, Mark’s wife, says leading up to her husband’s retirement in February, he was in search of something to do after. He realized his dream of opening a bookshop could become a reality. 

“We started talking about this about four years ago, and in February, we started talking about it a little bit more seriously,” Browning said. “[We] started looking at spaces down here. This space became available July 1. We found out about it, decided to move in and took possession of it September 1 and opened October 24.”

Since its grand opening, the bookshop has received an abundance of community support.

“The community support has been amazing. More people seem really excited to have a bookstore here, … And we’re lucky to live in an area that values reading and values education. And, I think that’s really going to help the bookstore succeed,” Browning said. 

Johanna Erickson heard about the idea for the bookshop and jumped at the opportunity to help the Browning family on their endeavor. Erickson has been in the shop nearly every day since its opening and believes the bookshop will be a staple in the community.

“There’s such a resurgence with books with everyone,” Erickson said. “And it’s so wonderful to see that people are missing that feeling of going in and someone knowing your name and chatting about books that you’ve read or offering recommendations.”

Photo by Jacob Erlbaum

Of Moose and Mind Bookshop offers a variety of books for readers of all kind.

One community member, Bradley Hudson, was in the shop for the first time on November 5. Hudson has high hopes for what the shop might bring.

“A place to meet and, you know, look at books, read books, maybe even have poetry recitals, things like that. Kind of a community space,” Hudson said.

Another Manulis resident, EJ, was also in the shop for the first time and reflected on the impact he hopes this shop will have on the Manlius community.

“I remember moving here and there was nothing over here, only a couple of shops,” EJ said. “So I think it definitely attracts people to come here

After his first visit, EJ said he loves the vibe of the shop and will be back again with his wife. 

The shop has a cozy feel to it that would be expected out of any small town bookshop — wooden walls, couches and a small space that feels personal. When walking in, every shelf is lined with books, drawing visitors to various genres. 

Erickson says the atmosphere is special at the shop, and it’s something she always envisioned. 

“People walk in and they just feel cozy,” Erickson said. “And they feel at home, and that’s the space we want to create for the community and surrounding areas.”