Located on Main Street right in the center of downtown Hobart, the Mysteries & More Crime Cafe is a delightful little bookshop specializing in mysteries and science fiction. The shop, which opened on May 28 2011, is located in a classic Greek Revival house built in the 1830's and which was the original home of Lindsay O'Connor, a well-known name in Hobart. It is situated next to the Post Office and between two other bookstores.
Inside there are two main rooms downstairs. The front room is smaller and decorated with a variety of period objects including a pump organ. The larger rear room is the social center of the store with comfy chairs and reading tables. Take your time to peruse the books or visit with the other customers.
Don Dales runs the shop and he is always ready to welcome you in for a relaxing visit and refreshments. He offers a variety of locally made pastries and snacks, coffee, tea, and other beverages. Join other customers and the proprietor at the large dining table in the main room for conversation and enjoy the view of the park through the balcony doors overlooking the west branch of the Delaware river.
Don has plans to use the front hall for displaying other locally produced merchandise, produce, and artwork. He hosts occasional events showcasing local artists, musicians, and poets. Authors have been known to come in for book signings and talks. Lectures are also hosted from time to time on various topics including local history, literature, art, science, and research. Don hopes to soon entertain audiences with renditions of Bach works on his harpsichord.
Don was originally from Stamford, though his father was a Hobart Native. He moved away to pursue a career in music and furniture restoration but was invited back for his 40th class reunion. While visiting he was reminded of the beauty and his fond memories of the area. He rented an apartment for the summers, then finally made a permanent move into the village. "Hobart wooed her magic spell on me." He is very interested in seeing the village and the surrounding areas thrive and grow, bringing in new opportunities and culture, while still maintaining the hometown charm and traditions.
Stop in and visit soon at 688 Main Street, Hobart, NY! Summer hours for the Mysteries & More / Crime Cafe are 11am to 5pm on Weekdays and 10am to 5pm on weekends. Call 607-538-9788 or email ddales@stny.rr.com if you have questions. You can also find information about all the Hobart area bookstores at http://www.hobartbookvillage.com/
