Words of Wonder Bookstore opens in Vacaville library

New community-run bookstore aims to promote reading and literacy

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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A new bookstore called Words of Wonder has opened inside the Vacaville Cultural Center Library, run by volunteers from the Friends of the Vacaville Libraries nonprofit. The store sells used books, records, tapes, and other media at affordable prices, with proceeds going to support programs at the local libraries.

Why it matters

The opening of Words of Wonder bookstore provides a new community resource for affordable books and media, while also supporting the local library system. It's part of a growing trend of community-driven initiatives to promote reading and literacy.

The details

Words of Wonder is managed by the Friends of the Vacaville Libraries, a nonprofit organization. The store sells donated used books, records, tapes, videos, CDs, and DVDs in 'gently used' condition. Prices range from 50 cents to $3, with children's books intentionally priced lower to promote literacy. Membership to the Friends of the Vacaville Libraries costs $10 for individuals and $15 for families, but non-members can also shop at the store. All sales proceeds will go towards funding programs and new furniture at the Cultural Center Library and Townsquare library.

  • The Words of Wonder bookstore held its grand opening on Saturday, February 14, 2026, which was chosen to coincide with Valentine's Day.
  • The bookstore opened after the Vacaville Cultural Center Library completed a 14-month renovation.

The players

Words of Wonder

A new community-run bookstore located inside the Vacaville Cultural Center Library, selling used books and media at affordable prices.

Friends of the Vacaville Libraries

A nonprofit organization that manages the Words of Wonder bookstore and supports programs and initiatives at the local library system.

Michelle Simonin

Vice president of the Friends of the Vacaville Libraries, who chose the Valentine's Day grand opening date to make it 'unforgettable.'

Cathy Valdez

President of the Friends of the Vacaville Libraries, who approached the Cultural Center Library about opening the bookstore during the library's renovation.

Jay Reed

A community member who decided on the name 'Words of Wonder' through a naming contest.

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What they’re saying

“People needed to know who Friends of the Vacaville Libraries are and what we do. It's important for us to give back to our community partners. We support home libraries such as the tiny libraries that are usually found in neighborhoods or along the street and we also provide books for assistant living homes with our large-print books.”

— Michelle Simonin, Vice president of the Friends of the Vacaville Libraries

“My son and I both played around with some names, we were trying to figure out. [Friends of Vacaville] refined it a little.”

— Jay Reed, Community member

“We've been trying to set this up for a while now. To finally see it open is surreal.”

— Courtney Adams, Volunteer for Words of Wonder

What’s next

The Friends of the Vacaville Libraries hope to eventually expand the bookstore's hours to four or five days per week, but will need to recruit more volunteers to keep it open.

The takeaway

The opening of Words of Wonder bookstore demonstrates the power of community-driven initiatives to support local libraries and promote literacy. By providing affordable books and media, the store aims to make reading more accessible while also funding valuable library programs.