ARLINGTON, Texas — From little mom and pop stores to major chains, more bookstores are opening across Texas and the U.S. Data from the American Booksellers Association shows a 70% increase in independent bookstores since 2020.

Kait Thibeaux worked on a few finishing touches before she officially opened her new bookstore in Arlington, just east of Fort Worth, last Friday.

"You know the Lord has kind of provided a lot of opportunity for me to do that," said Thibeaux.

An achievement that was made after turning the page on a tough chapter in her life.

"I lost my job back in July, and that was kind of the push to okay, go pursue a dream that I've had for a long time," said Thibeaux.

The 27-year-old is the owner of Folklore Grove, a tiny little nook located inside a sandwich shop.

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