Phinney Books owner Tom Nissley is opening a new shop: Madison Books, slated for a space in the heart of Madison Park. It's an exciting development; Madison Park has been without an independent bookstore since Madison Park Books closed in 2005. And it's a testament to how much the neighborhood wants a bookshop. The venture is supported by lifetime resident Susan Moseley, who's been trying to bring a bookstore back for more than a decade.

With James Crossley of Island Books stepping up to run the store, there's some exceptional talent in play — people who know who to do general interest curation, and know how to make a small space sing. We'll follow up with them in the weeks to come for a rundown on their plans and projected opening date.