Marti McAllister Wolf, owner of the independent bookstore Pacific Mist Books, celebrated her 16th anniversary of business in Sequim on Friday, Oct. 2.

"I do love what I do and I love Sequim," she said.

A book lover all her life, McAllister Wolf always wanted to work in a bookstore, but raising a family prevented her from doing that.

"Then I thought, 'Why not open my own store?'"

She bought the store, Kat's Books, and changed the name, although the store remains at 121 W. Washington St., Sequim.

Sixteen years later, McAllister Wolf attributes her longevity to ordering more literary and "cream of the crop" books.

"I avoid books you'll find

in the drug and grocery stores."

Special orders remain a big part of her business with about 40 percent of profits coming from that.

"I like to think I have a good reputation for fast service."

Most orders arrive within one or two days.

She keeps a diverse inventory that includes books by local authors and peninsula hiking and tourism books. One of her favorite genres is contemporary fiction, which she recommends often.

To stay competitive with online book retailers, she doesn't charge shipping on most books, except when she orders directly from publishers.

"E-tailers might have a discount on books but they'll get you with shipping costs."

One of her goals is to interest more students in young-adult books as well as maintain customer relationships.

"I love Sequim, and the people are so kind-hearted here," she said.

"Since, I've moved here, I've become a kinder person because of the people."



At a glance

What: Pacific Mist Books

Where: 121 W. Washington St., Sequim

When: 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday;

10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday

Who to call: 683-1396 for special orders.



Reach Matthew Nash at mnash@sequimgazette.com.