For literary lovers, nothing beats a calm, quiet trip to the bookstore. While big chains like Barnes & Noble provide a large selection of titles, local shops offer a more personal experience that tends to attract hardcore bibliophiles. In a quaint, cozy bookstore in Nova Scotia, owner Ellen Helmke’s business features something you can’t find at large retail locations: kittens.
On any given day, the furry felines can be found climbing bookshelves, lounging on armchairs, or laying in patches of sun. At Otis and Clementine’s Books and Coffee, this animal activity is part of the appeal. These cats weren’t always part of the business plan, but now Helmke couldn’t imagine her bookstore without them.
A Unique Community Bookstore
Helmke, a Chicago native, moved to Nova Scotia in 1998 and never looked back. Her children’s love of walking to the local bookstore inspired her to pursue her dream of owning a shop of her own. As a result, Otis and Clementine’s Books opened in 2011. Since those early beginnings, this eclectic and cozy bookstore is now a community favorite.
Helmke, of course, was not content with simply selling books. Because nothing is more relaxing than sipping on a hot beverage while reading, Otis and Clementine’s features an organic espresso bar. Tea, cookies, and locally roasted coffee are also on the menu. Additionally, book clubs, open mic nights, Spanish classes, and other community events are all hosted at the shop. (1)
In May of 2019, Helmke decided to embark on a new journey that would solidify her bookstore’s appeal. With so much extra room at the shop, she decided to become part of a local fostering program. Her decision would bring attention to Otis and Clementine’s from around the globe. (2)
Books And Kittens: A Winning Combination
Rescuing kittens through South Paw Conservation Nova Scotia, Helmke decided to let the young felines wander the shop. “I thought it would be a fun thing to do and I thought people would enjoy it,” Helmke told CBC Radio Canada, “but it’s turned out to be so popular.” Patrons often come into the shop primarily to interact with the kittens–though they usually grab a coffee and a book, too. (3)
The bookstore fosters cats and kittens, and customers can request to adopt them through the rescue group. Not only does the adoption fee cover spay and neuter and vaccines, but it also enables the rescue to keep operating. As Otis and Clementine’s fosters incoming kittens, they get much-needed socialization while waiting for their forever homes.
Since starting the program, 100% of Helmke’s fostered kittens have found adoptive parents. Many customers, looking to buy a book or take a coffee break, have fallen in love with a rambunctious furbaby. These unexpected matches have helped the adoption program continue to be successful.
Surviving In Hard Times
Though the COVID-19 pandemic has altered the way many do business, Helmke has been able to stay afloat. While the community can’t see the cats in person until quarantine rules change, Helmke posts updates on social media along with book recommendations and new stock. Thanks to community support, Otis and Clementine’s is staying afloat amid challenging times. (4)
Customers will be happy to enter the bookstore’s doors once again in the future. No doubt, the foster kittens will happy to climb into new laps and new hearts.
