Mission resident Jennifer Schmidt is turning a long‑standing wish into reality. By the end of November, she expects to open Mission Bookworm, a locally owned bookstore dedicated to young readers and the families who support them.
Filling a Gap for Young Readers
Schmidt, who moved to Mission in 2019, says she has spent countless hours at the northeastern Johnson County library system and browsing the many independent bookstores that dot the Kansas City metro. “Every time I visited those stores, I kept thinking there needs to be a shop just for kids and teenagers,” she explained. “The more I thought about it, the more I wanted to bring it to life.”
A Space Designed for Kids and Parents
The future store will occupy a former medical office that is being transformed from exam rooms into bookshelves, reading nooks and a small stage for author visits and story‑time events. In addition to a wide selection of children’s and teen literature, Schmidt plans to carry a modest assortment of titles for parents—such as poetry collections and parenting guides—along with gift items like art supplies and greeting cards.
“My hope is that people feel comfortable in the space and that it’s inclusive and welcoming,” Schmidt said. “It can be that third space for young families to connect to each other, and for kids to connect to books.”
Rooted in Service and Literacy
Schmidt’s commitment to literacy extends beyond the bookstore. After growing up reading at the local library, she served in the Peace Corps in the Dominican Republic, where she helped connect children with books in their native language. Later, while working for a nonprofit in New York, she helped launch the City’s First Readers initiative, supporting home‑based child‑care providers and reinforcing her belief that books are essential to a child’s development.
“I’ve just felt led to do it,” she added. “It’s kind of been a dream.”
Community Benefits
Mission Bookworm is positioned to become more than a retail outlet; it aims to serve as a community hub where families can gather, learn and celebrate literature together. Schmidt envisions regular story‑time sessions, author talks, and workshops that will give parents and educators new tools to foster a love of reading.
“There is so much value and beauty in children’s literature and I hope people can discover that in our store,” she said. “It’s a place of wisdom, wonder and whimsy—where kids can be kids, and parents can maybe be kids again.”
Looking Ahead
With the renovation well underway, Schmidt is finalizing inventory and planning a grand opening event that will invite local schools, churches and civic groups to share in the celebration. The bookstore’s focus on family, faith and community aligns with the values that many Mission residents hold dear, promising a welcoming addition to the city’s cultural landscape.
Mission Bookworm represents a fresh, family‑centered business venture that supports local literacy, encourages parental involvement and adds a new gathering place for the Mission community.
Original reporting: Johnson County Post (Overland Park) — read the source article.
