In March, as the pandemic cast a shadow over Couth Buzzard Books, owner Theo Dzielak contemplated closing the chapter on his beloved bookstore. Financial challenges loomed, and the prospect of debt weighed heavily. Unexpectedly, the community rallied—authors, musicians, and patrons united, breathing life into a triumphant GoFundMe campaign that saved the store. Over 720 donors became the heroes in this real-life 'It's a Wonderful Life' narrative.
Despite the success of the crowdfunding venture, Dzielak felt the time had come to retire. A seasoned bookseller since his days at University Village Barnes & Noble in 2001, he took the reins at Couth Buzzard in 2004, steering it through relocations and challenges. Following the store's eviction, Dzielak, alongside original co-owner Gerry Lovchik, orchestrated a move to its present location on Greenwood Ave. N. Business flourished after the crowdfunding victory, with Dzielak and his team working diligently to enhance the store and settle debts.
In collaboration with supporters, Dzielak formed a steering committee to ensure the longevity of Couth Buzzard. While considering various options, such as nonprofit status, the complexity and risks led them to narrow down to three choices: finding a supporting nonprofit, selling the store, or closing its doors. Despite interest from potential buyers, no definitive steps have been taken, prompting Dzielak to invite those intrigued by this literary haven to join the conversation.
As the bookstore stands at a crossroads, Dzielak aims to finalize its fate by summer 2024. Rooted in the 'third places' concept of the late 1980s, Couth Buzzard emerged as a community hub in 1988, providing a space beyond work and home. Its current layout mirrors this ethos, embodying the spirit of a cherished third place for those who seek solace and connection within the pages of a good book.
At the forefront of Couth Buzzard Books, a captivating narrative unfolds as you step through its entrance. A modest display boasts the latest releases, enticing you with the allure of fresh paperbacks and hardcovers. However, the true magic lies in the labyrinth of used books that beckon you deeper into the store—a treasure trove of pulpy sci-fi and rare gems waiting to be discovered.
While meandering through the shelves, the aromatic embrace of the espresso bar invites you to savor an Americano, setting the stage for the store's expansive interior. Transforming into a dynamic performance space, Couth buzzes with life through its diverse calendar of events—readings, community gatherings, language classes, live music, and improv sessions. A visit to Couth promises a kaleidoscope of experiences, from a spirited klezmer concert to the enchantment of children's story time and the intellectual discourse of a current events discussion group—all in a single week.
In an era where the decline of 'third places' is evident, exacerbated by pandemic-related closures, Couth Buzzard stands at a pivotal juncture in history. The question lingers: will communities retreat into isolation, or will the vibrant tapestry of neighborhood spaces reemerge? Theo Dzielak, the custodian of Couth, envisions the Greenwood/Phinney community as uniquely poised to champion the revival of the 'third place.' With a harmonious blend of businesses, single-family residences, the Greenwood Senior Center, and the Phinney Neighborhood Center, the neighborhood forms a cohesive backdrop.
A neighborhood transcends mere geography; it thrives on shared spaces and collective experiences, precisely where Couth Buzzard plays a vital role. Dzielak, reflecting on the countless events witnessed from the espresso counter, admits the impossibility of singling out one defining moment. Yet, Wednesday evening open mics emerge as a cherished favorite—a melting pot of ages and talents, defying categorization. Dzielak muses, 'It's anything goes.' Over the years, the espresso counter has been witness to extraordinary talents, but the most heartwarming moments unfold when individuals bravely share their poetry with an audience for the first time, greeted by the warm embrace of community applause—a testament to the enduring spirit of Couth Buzzard Books.
The pages of Theo Dzielak's bookselling career tell a tale of resilience amidst adversity, weaving through a tapestry of challenges. Starting his journey in the aftermath of 9/11, he ventured further, taking ownership during the tumultuous era of the Great Recession. Disaster became a familiar companion—be it the aftermath of a massive gas explosion, where the storefront stood shrouded in plywood, or the heart-wrenching diagnosis of his daughter's lymphoma in 2011, ultimately leading to her passing the following year.
Surviving this profoundly personal catastrophe was a testament to the strength of community bonds. Dzielak recalls the unwavering support of his neighbors during those trying times. Juggling between opening the store in the mornings and attending to his daughter in the hospital, he found solace in the shared responsibility that kept Couth Buzzard Books alive. Reflecting on this tumultuous journey, Dzielak acknowledges, 'It's been quite a journey.'
Amidst the storms, Couth Buzzard Books stands resilient, a testament to the enduring spirit of its owner and the community it serves. Dzielak's trust in the community's ability to rally, evident in the store's survival through various crises, remains unshaken.
As the custodian of Couth Buzzard Books, Dzielak shares insights into the literary pulse of the Pacific Northwest. Bestsellers that resonate with the community include Robin Wall Kimmerer's "Braiding Sweetgrass," exploring the profound connections between Indigenous knowledge of plants and scientific botany. Bessel van der Kolk's "The Body Keeps the Score," delving into the physical impacts of trauma, continues to captivate readers.
Customer favorites extend to Barbara Kingsolver's "Demon Copperhead," a unique Appalachian retelling of "David Copperfield." Dzielak himself champions Heather Cox Richardson, praising her book "Democracy Awakening" for its poignant exploration of societal fissures and historical parallels, particularly in the context of the Civil War.
In the spirit of fostering connections, Dzielak, the purveyor of community, recommends David Brooks' latest work, "How to Know a Person." Despite ideological differences, Dzielak and Brooks share a deep concern for the nation's trajectory, making the book a compelling read for those navigating the complexities of human connections in a rapidly changing world.
In the evolving landscape of divergent perspectives, Theo Dzielak, owner of Couth Buzzard Books, sees a beacon of hope in the form of David Brooks' exploration. Brooks delves into the crucial necessity for individuals harboring differing opinions to engage in genuine dialogue, to listen and seek out the dwindling common ground. In a world where shared understanding seems elusive, Brooks advocates for bridging divides through meaningful conversation.
Couth Buzzard Books, nestled at 8310 Greenwood Ave. N. in Seattle, stands as a testament to the power of fostering connections. Guided by Dzielak's vision, the bookstore serves as a haven for diverse voices and ideas. The phone lines echo with the number 206-436-2960, inviting the community to partake in the rich tapestry of literature and conversation within. The doors swing open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, extending a warm welcome to all who seek to explore the realms of knowledge and understanding.
In a world where common ground appears to be eroding, Couth Buzzard Books remains a steadfast advocate for the art of listening, understanding, and discovering unity amidst diversity. As the pages of each day unfold, the bookstore stands as a reminder that, even in a discordant symphony of opinions, the melody of shared humanity persists.
As Couth Buzzard Books stands resilient on Greenwood Ave. N. in Seattle, Theo Dzielak's unwavering belief in the power of connection and dialogue reverberates through its shelves and corridors. In the evolving landscape of divergent opinions, David Brooks' exploration serves as a guiding light, emphasizing the urgent need for genuine listening and the pursuit of common ground. As the clock ticks from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, the bookstore's doors remain open, inviting the community to immerse themselves in the rich mosaic of literature and conversation.
Amidst the challenges of our time, Couth Buzzard Books is more than a bookstore; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of shared experiences and collective understanding. In a world where common ground seems elusive, the bookstore stands as a sanctuary, a space where the echoes of diverse voices harmonize in the pursuit of unity.
As the community converges within its walls, Couth Buzzard Books is not merely a seller of stories but a curator of connections, a refuge for those seeking solace in the shared tapestry of humanity. In the face of an increasingly fragmented world, the bookstore's pages unfold as a reminder that, with each turned leaf and open ear, the potential for meaningful dialogue and shared understanding endures. In the heart of Greenwood Ave. N., the story of Couth Buzzard Books continues—a testament to the enduring power of literature, conversation, and the unyielding bonds of community.