Store History

Old Firehouse Books began its life as the Book Rack of Fort Collins, started in 1980 by Bill Hawk. It was a used paperback store, built on trading books. Over time Bill's wife Maggie and their daughter Marta joined the store. The store grew at the same location for twenty years, always carrying one of the finest stocks of used titles in Fort Collins. In 2001 the store sold to Susie Wilmer and Dick Sommerfeld, long time Book Rack owners in Cheyenne and Greeley. The present owners have increased the used stock and begun ordering new books. The store moved to 1801 S College in the spring of 2002, thanks to many hours of work by staff and volunteers. With all the changes they have never lost sight of Bill Hawk's goal to have lots of fun while selling books in Northern Colorado. Their mission is providing a local store that reflects Fort Collins' unique lifestyle. After all, how could they go wrong reflecting the tastes of what has been listed as one of the top cities of the United States?In 2009, the store moved into the old historic firehouse, a Fort Collins landmark. In honor of the building in which the store is now located, the name was changed to Old Firehouse Books.With 400 square feet more in space, the store is better able to hold author signings, book club meetings, and other community events.