Terrie Morris, a former elementary teacher who spent 35 years at Mission Trail Elementary in Leawood, is set to open a unique retail space in southern Olathe next month. The Reading Garden, slated to open its doors in November, will combine a used‑and‑new‑bookstore with a small indoor plant shop, creating a quiet sanctuary for readers and garden enthusiasts alike.
Local roots, family involvement
The project is a true family effort. Morris’s son Aaron has built shelves and plant stands, while her daughter Andrea Corless designed the shop’s sign and logo. Even Morris’s eight‑year‑old granddaughter, Brianna, has volunteered to read to younger children on weekends. “We kind of all got involved, which is really cool,” Morris said, noting the phenomenal support she’s received from relatives.
A community‑focused concept
The Reading Garden will feature a children’s play area, meeting rooms and reading spaces at the back of the store. Morris hopes the venue will become a hub for book clubs and community conversation. “I think there’s a lot of people out there that just want a community connection,” she explained. “I’m excited about getting to know different people and learning what they like to read.”
In addition to books, the shop will sell a curated selection of plants sourced from Free State Growers, a Kansas‑based grower in Linwood. The plants will be displayed near large windows to take advantage of natural light, creating a calming atmosphere that Morris says early visitors have already praised.
More than just books
Beyond literature and greenery, The Reading Garden will offer a small range of gift items, including candles, shower steamers and lotions. Morris plans to gather feedback from former teacher colleagues, family members and local residents to shape the inventory, ensuring the store reflects the tastes of the Olathe community.
Southern Olathe currently has few independent bookstores, a gap Morris aims to fill. While the Kansas City metro area hosts several independent shops, including 3 of Cups in downtown Olathe, Morris believes her concept offers something distinct: a combined reading and plant sanctuary that serves both families and individual shoppers.
From classroom to storefront
After retiring from a 46‑year teaching career, Morris is realizing a dream that traces back to the 1990s romantic comedy “You’ve Got Mail.” She envisions The Reading Garden as a peaceful, welcoming space where customers can browse, relax and connect. “That’s what everybody that’s walked in here for the first time has said – that’s kind of my goal, for people to be really comfortable in here,” she said.
The storefront, formerly a staffing agency, is being transformed with light‑green walls, new furniture and custom shelving. Morris expects the final touches – light fixtures and paint – to be completed soon, after which the shop will welcome its first customers.
Looking ahead
With the opening scheduled for November, Morris is optimistic about the shop’s reception. “There’s no place around here like this,” she said. “I’m hoping that it’s something that people really want.” The Reading Garden promises to add a new cultural and retail option to Olathe, supporting local families, encouraging reading and offering a green oasis in the heart of the community.
Original reporting: Johnson County Post (Overland Park) — read the source article.
