Tamara Gatson, owner of The Book Cellar in Olde Town Conyers, has been recognized with the 2024 Outstanding Achievement Award by the Conyers Downtown Development Authority (DDA). Gatson's contributions to local culture and commerce include not only running a bookstore but also organizing events and programs that have dynamically increased visitors to the historic area. According to a statement obtained by the City of Conyers, these efforts encompass a range of activities from retreats to children's events, along with the initiation of the Conyers Book Festival.
The Book Cellar, stationed at 951 Railroad Street, began to quickly draw a crowd after its opening in July 2022. Gatson's business has successfully managed to both serve as a book haven and to create an inclusive community. Revealing her journey, Gatson told the City of Conyers, “For 15 years, my office was inside a plaza on Sigman Road, less than two miles away. When that property suddenly changed ownership, I had no choice but to find a new location. When I came across 951 Railroad Street, it felt almost like a dream. Its beauty and charm immediately caught my eye, and I knew it was meant to be. Just two months later, that dream became a reality, and the doors opened for me to take the leap into realizing another dream of mine – owning a bookstore.”
The historic Almand-Mann House, where The Book Cellar now resides, has a rich past, having been built in the mid-1800s. Before becoming a bookstore and café, the Victorian-style building once served several functions from a funeral home to an Italian restaurant, and had even been renovated in 2017 for office and training center use.
DDA Chairman Keish Momin praised Gatson's efforts in maintaining the historical integrity of the site while adding a fresh cultural touch. Momin elaborated, saying, “Ms. Gatson and her team have done an exemplary job maintaining and preserving a historic building that accommodates multiple uses, all while creating an appealing and welcoming vibe that is much needed in Olde Town,” as noted by the city's website.
This accolade marks the tenth year that the Conyers DDA has honored a business or individual for their commitment to beautification, preservation, and restoration within the historic district. The DDA, established to invigorate development in Olde Town Conyers, meets monthly and welcomes the public to attend. More information about The Book Cellar and its upcoming events can be found by following them on social media @thebookcellaratl or by emailing [email protected].
