Our Story

We are Aimee Odette and Michael Rank, owners of The Island Bookshop. Our store was born from our shared vision when we recognized the need for a bookshop in Venice, Florida. To us, a bookshop is an extension of home and the anchor of a community.

We are both university professors with a love for books and building community, and our idea to open a bookshop was a long-standing dream. The Island Bookshop became possible and was launched during the summer of 2021 in the historic downtown district of Venice Island, with enthusiastic support from the local community.

The Island Bookshop sells new books and other reading-related products, including art and photography by local residents. As a small community-oriented establishment, we also provide literary and art experiences for customers of all ages, from children to adults. Moreover, as residents of Venice Island, we are especially proud to showcase the work of various local writers in the community, our home.

Above all, The Island Bookshop caters to the reading wants, needs, and desires of its customers. Writing and reading classes, writer’s groups, children’s groups, local author events, and community outreach programs define the bookshop’s mission. With gratitude, we look forward to fulfilling the literary needs of the community, as well as continuing to foster a lifelong dream.