New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce

News Release: Renewing Downtown New Ulm – Local Bookstore to Open May 2024

 
For Immediate Release                                                                                                                                            

Additional Information, Contact: 
Brie Taralson – 763-229-4097 - lykkebooks@gmail.com
 
                                                                           

Renewing Downtown New Ulm – Local Bookstore to Open May 2024
 
4.12.24 Lykke Books and Ulm Sweet Ulm to Open Soon!
 
In a town where progress seems to be popular these days, the addition of a new local bookstore and community hub will provide space for the residents of New Ulm, and surrounding areas, to gather for connections and local experiences. Lykke Books and community space, suitably named, “Ulm Sweet Ulm”, is slated to open in May of 2024 in their new brick-and-mortar space, at 203 N Minnesota Street.
 
This collaborative space will feature a community center, a grab-and-go café powered by Gutes Essen Deli & Catering and Crush 80/20, gathering spaces including a rentable multi-purpose gym, and an indoor artisan market. As a bonus,
Lykke will continue to donate a portion of net profits to the sister non-profit organization, Lykke Communities, to fund programming for area youth. 
 
“We conducted focus groups, and a youth survey to learn more about the programs that our community youth would like to participate in,” said founder Taralson. “The top five areas identified as programs of interest are: arts and creative writing offerings, skill-building classes, life skill building, movement-based activities, and service projects to help the community.” she continued, “We are thrilled with this response and the opportunity to give back to area youth and families in such a meaningful way.”, she finished.
Program offerings within the space include a vast array of author events and bookish delights including book clubs, author readings and signings, in addition to other complementary services. Ulm Sweet Ulm plans to offer weekly game nights such as Magic: The Gathering and featured tabletop games as well as self-directed activities for adults and adolescents through the art cafe.
Ulm Sweet Ulm’s grand opening is planned to begin on Monday, May 13th with a week-long series of events and activities. Events offered include a featured show in the community hub’s art gallery, art activities, a silent book club, and game nights. On Saturday, May 18th there will be giveaways announced every hour as well as samples from Gutes Essen and Crush 80/20. The capstone event is a ticketed fireside chat and book signing with a trio of beloved Minnesota authors: Edgar-nominated Jess Lourey (The Quarry Girls), Kristi Belcamino (Vendetta), and Minnesota Book Award winner, Sarah Stonich (Laurentian Divide). Pre-registration is required, and tickets are $5, which turn into a coupon redeemable the day of the event.
Until they open their doors, Lykke Books is currently offering top titles at their temporary space at the Christmas Haus at 127 N Minnesota St, downtown New Ulm. “We also offer direct-to-your-door titles through our website www.lykkebooks.com.”, said bookseller, Ginny Walters. “We wanted to offer a way to shop locally, but still enjoy the convenience and vast selection of other online vendors”, she ended. 
 
Lykke Books is also running their program, “Titles for Teachers” allowing teachers and school libraries to create wish lists for the community to purchase as a donation. 
 
You can find out more about the progress of this new, downtown business, and ways to support their growth at their website, or by attending the current store.  
 
Lykke Books is an independent bookstore located in downtown New Ulm, MN focused on creating a community focal point and gathering space that highlights local authors, poets, artists, and artisans. The space features a community center, a grab-and-go cafe, community gathering spaces including a rentable multi-purpose gym, and an indoor artisan market. Lykke Books donates a portion of its net profits to its sister non-profit organization, Lykke Communities, to fund programming for area youth. 
 
At Lykke Communities, we believe in the value of positive emotions, engagement, relationships, and meeting the needs of our communities. We strive to provide a welcoming, supportive environment where everyone can feel comfortable and respected, and where everyone is encouraged to reach their full potential. We believe in building relationships based on trust, understanding, and mutual respect. Lykke is committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity, and innovation, and to helping our communities realize their goals. Together, we will create a brighter future for everyone.