Bookstore planned for last vacant space at Union Depot

Both Minneapolis and St. Paul are great cities for book lovers. Sure, there are lists that stroke Minnesota's literary ego, but they aren't needed. It's easy to look around and see the events, festivals, readings, and bookstores that make the case.

That case is about to get a little stronger. St. Paul's Union Depot will get a new bookstore to accompany its just-opened restaurant . Story Line Books, owned and operated by Danielle Miller, plans to open in the travel hub this fall.

"Old train-related places are heaven," Miller, who is leaving a career in law for the new venture, said in a statement. "When I started making the move to Minnesota, I began dreaming of a store in St. Paul because it's such a reader town. The first available spot for lease I found was this location. It felt like the universe was telling me to go for it. It's the right size, the right vibe, and the right people."

The bookstore will sit in the Head House, shelved between Choo Choo Bob's Train Store and the new 1881 by Lake Elmo Inn restaurant. It promises a wide selection with a particular focus on fiction and children's books.

Additionally, Miller plans on hosting events, readings, and book clubs, with a slant toward children's book events.

With the addition of Story Line Books, Union Depot has leased out all of its storefronts, it said in an announcement. The bookstore will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.