From the Ground Up Books isn’t your ordinary bookstore. This warm, inviting indie shop has two unique locations in Kentucky – one tucked inside a historic (and yes, haunted) 19th-century home in La Grange, and another nestled along the famed Bourbon Trail in Shepherdsville. Here, books meet local history and culture in an unforgettable way. Whether you’re a devoted book lover, a history buff intrigued by ghostly legends, or a tourist exploring Bluegrass country, From the Ground Up Books offers an experience that goes far beyond browsing shelves.
Two Charming Locations: Historic La Grange and Bourbon Trail Shepherdsville
From the Ground Up Books has made its home in two Kentucky towns, each with its own charm:
La Grange (Oldham County) – Located at the historic Ballard House at 205 E Main Street, the La Grange store oozes character. The building was built in 1840, and its old walls seem to whisper stories. Step through the door and you’ll find creaking hardwood floors, cozy reading nooks, and even the occasional rumble as a real train rolls right down Main Street outside. (More on that magical train experience later!) This location has been lovingly nicknamed “Platform 205” in honor of its address and the town’s railroad heritage. It truly feels like a portal to another era, where history comes alive among the books.
Shepherdsville (Bullitt County) – The second location sits in the heart of Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail country. Just a short drive south of Louisville, Shepherdsville right on the path to bourbon distilleries and welcomes whiskey lovers from around the world. Fittingly, From the Ground Up’s Shepherdsville shop embraces that local flavor – you might hear it called “Bourbon Barrel” as a nod to the nearby bourbon culture. The atmosphere here is rustic and warm, with bourbon-themed decor and Kentucky hospitality. It’s the perfect literary pit stop for travelers hitting the Bourbon Trail, offering a calm, bookish respite alongside bourbon tastings and distillery tours.
No matter which location you visit, you’ll be greeted with the same friendly smiles, the scent of books both new and old, and a sense that you’ve stepped into a community hub. Each store carries a wide range of new and used books, hosts events, and showcases unique locally-made gifts. It’s easy to lose track of time exploring either space – and you’ll want to visit both to fully appreciate how this indie bookstore has woven itself into the fabric of each town.
Haunted History and Ghostly Tales at the Ballard House
If you love ghost stories and historic buildings, the La Grange location will send shivers down your spine—in the best way. Housed in the Ballard House, built in 1840, this historic site has deep ties to Kentucky’s past and a resident ghost, Livinia Ballard.
Livinia, one of the first women to own property in Kentucky, fought for her rights in a time when women were legally barred from ownership. Some say she never left, and strange occurrences continue to happen within the bookstore—shadows moving, books shifting, unexplained footsteps.
From the Ground Up Books is part of the Spirits of La Grange Ghost Tour, where visitors can learn about the bookstore’s spectral history. Live paranormal investigations have been hosted in the bookstore, allowing visitors to experience the haunting for themselves. On March 22, 2025, at 7 PM, From the Ground Up Books will host a special live episode of Weirdos in the Wild featuring Chris McGill and Jamie Best from Dimensions Radio. Expect wild stories, eerie encounters, and a deep dive into the unknown—all recorded inside the haunted bookstore.
History meets mystery in this one-of-a-kind bookstore, making it a destination for ghost hunters, history lovers, and bookworms alike.
On the Kentucky Bourbon Trail – A Literary Stop in Shepherdsville
Book lovers doing the Kentucky Bourbon Trail have a special treat in Shepherdsville. The From the Ground Up Books location here has quickly become a must-visit stop for bourbon tourists and locals alike. Situated conveniently near iconic distilleries (Jim Beam’s American Stillhouse in Clermont is just minutes away), the bookstore offers a unique blend of literature and bourbon-country hospitality.
Step inside and you’ll find bourbon barrel accents and maybe even a few bourbon-themed books and cocktail recipe collections on display. The owners have brilliantly tapped into the local culture – sometimes hosting bourbon tasting tie-ins with book events. (A tasting of local craft bourbon paired with a discussion of a Kentucky history novel, anyone?)
If you’re touring the Bourbon Trail, popping into From the Ground Up Books in Shepherdsville is a perfect way to break up your journey. Grab a novel or Kentucky travelogue for the road, chat with the welcoming staff about their favorite nearby distilleries, and soak in the small-town charm. You might even get insider tips on lesser-known local attractions. This bookstore understands that Kentucky’s heritage runs on bourbon as much as it does on books, and it offers a delightful dose of both.
Trains on Main Street: Railfest 275 and La Grange’s Railroad Heritage
La Grange is famously one of the only towns in America where freight trains still run directly down the main street – and From the Ground Up Books has a front-row seat. Several times a day, the store’s windows rattle (just a bit) as a train chugs by literally a few feet from the front door. Far from being a nuisance, this has become a beloved quirk of the town and a thrill for visitors. There’s something almost magical about browsing a bookstore and suddenly hearing a train whistle. You glance up to see a locomotive glide past the front door, close enough to wave at the engineer!
In fact, 2025 marks 175 years since the first train rolled through La Grange, and the town is celebrating in a big way with RailFest 175. This three-day festival (scheduled for May 9–11, 2025) will honor the town’s rich railroad history with live music, local vendors, delicious food, and family-friendly fun. From the Ground Up Books is joining in the RailFest excitement — you can expect special events at the bookstore during the festival, like train-themed story times for kids and historical displays about the railroad. The La Grange store’s nickname “Platform 205” couldn’t be more appropriate as the community comes together to celebrate the rails that built the town.
Train enthusiasts will find La Grange and its bookstore especially enchanting. The combination of trains and literature creates a nostalgic atmosphere that harks back to simpler times. Sit on the front porch outside the shop with your new book, listen for the distant rumble, and when the train comes through, feel the rush as history literally passes by on steel tracks. RailFest is the perfect occasion to visit, but any day you stop in at From the Ground Up Books, you’re likely to experience the unique thrill of a train on Main Street. It’s a bucket-list experience for railroad buffs and a charming surprise for first-time visitors.
The Order of Midnight: Exclusive Membership Perks
To make the experience even more magical for its biggest fans, From the Ground Up Books offers a one-of-a-kind membership program called the Order of Midnight. This isn’t your average bookstore loyalty card – it’s more like joining a secret society for bookworms, bourbon aficionados, and even paranormal enthusiasts. The name itself evokes the mystery and adventure that awaits members.
Order of Midnight members enjoy a treasure trove of perks and insider access. For a modest monthly fee (with different tiers available), you can unlock benefits such as:
Store Discounts: Get at least 10% off books and select gifts every time you shop, so you can build your personal library for less.
Exclusive Events: Receive invitations to members-only gatherings, like after-hours shopping nights, VIP author meet-and-greets, bourbon tasting events, and even the occasional ghost-hunting adventure in the old Ballard House.
Free Books & Surprises: Earn free books through loyalty points or quarterly credits, and delight in surprise gifts curated just for members. (Higher-tier members even get an annual mystery gift tailored to their interests.)
Priority Access: Be the first to know about big events and new programs. Members often get early access to tickets for special workshops, front-row seating at author readings, and first dibs on rare signed editions that come into the store.
This membership is a fantastic way for regular visitors to deepen their connection with the bookstore. It not only provides great value through discounts and freebies, but also builds a tight-knit community of readers who share a love for all things literary (and a bit of local lore). The owners have crafted the Order of Midnight to celebrate what makes From the Ground Up Books unique – blending books, bourbon, and a hint of mystery – and to reward those who keep coming back for more. It truly makes you feel like a VIP every time you walk in the door.
Book It Forward: Paying What You Can for a Good Read
Committed to making reading accessible to everyone, From the Ground Up Books has introduced a heartwarming initiative called Book It Forward. This community-driven program allows customers to pay what they can for select books, ensuring that cost is never a barrier to enjoying a great story. Here’s how it works: a special shelf or section in the store features donated or designated books that don’t carry a fixed price. If you see something you’d love to read but budget is tight, you can take it and pay whatever amount you’re able – even if that’s just a few cents or a simple promise to pass on the kindness.
The idea behind Book It Forward is to spread the joy of reading and encourage a “pay-it-forward” spirit among patrons. Those who have a little extra can contribute more, essentially covering the cost for someone else who might not be able to pay full price. It creates a beautiful cycle of generosity. Maybe you’ll buy one book for yourself and sponsor another for a stranger, or you’ll come back later to donate books into the program.
This program has been a hit with the community. Parents on a budget, teachers stocking their classroom, or young readers with a tiny allowance can all get books in their hands through Book It Forward. It’s a testament to the kind of place From the Ground Up Books is – not just a business, but a community cornerstone that believes everyone deserves a chance to read and grow. When you visit, be sure to ask about the Book It Forward shelf. You might find a hidden gem of a novel and make someone’s day at the same time.
Honored by James Patterson – A Community Treasure Recognized Nationally
The impact and dedication of From the Ground Up Books haven’t gone unnoticed. In 2024, the bookstore received a prestigious James Patterson Holiday Bonus Award – a special grant and recognition given by bestselling author James Patterson to outstanding independent bookstores. This honor is a big deal in the bookselling world, sort of like winning an Oscar for bookstore owners! It highlights how much From the Ground Up Books has woven itself into the community and fostered a love of reading.
James Patterson (famous for thrillers and his advocacy for literacy) awards Holiday Bonuses to bookstores that go above and beyond. From the Ground Up Books stood out for its innovative programs and community focus – think of everything it offers: literacy initiatives like Book It Forward, support for local authors, educational workshops, and creating a welcoming space for readers of all ages. The Holiday Bonus Award came as a delightful surprise to Lynn Tincher, the founder and owner, who poured her heart into opening the store in 2023 and expanding it just a year later. She sees the award not just as a personal achievement but as a win for the whole community that rallied around this indie bookstore from day one.
For visitors, the James Patterson accolade is a reassuring sign that this bookstore is something special. After all, Patterson chose it out of many across the country as a place worthy of celebrating – because of its positive impact. When you walk into the shop, you can feel that passion and community spirit. It’s one more reason that From the Ground Up Books is a must-visit: you’re not only getting a great bookstore experience, you’re stepping into an award-winning space that continues to give back to its community.
Witches Night Out: A Spellbinding New Tradition in La Grange
Mark your calendars for October 24th, because From the Ground Up Books and the La Grange Main Street Program are teaming up to conjure a brand-new event: Witches Night Out! This first-ever celebration invites everyone to tap into their mystical side. Guests are encouraged to dress up as witches – so don your pointy hats, flowing capes, and broomsticks for a night of fun, community, and a touch of magic. It’s not just a costume party; it’s a gathering of kindred spirits under the autumn sky, all excited to celebrate a shared love of the fantastical.
When twilight falls on downtown La Grange it will transform into a magical carnival of sights and sounds. Main Street will come alive with live music pulsing through the cool fall air and witches (of all ages) dancing together under the streetlights. Follow the tantalizing aromas to an array of food trucks offering everything from wickedly sweet treats to savory meals, perfect for fueling an evening of adventure. Stroll among local vendors’ booths brimming with unique crafts and mystical wares – you might find crystal jewelry, handcrafted candles, or potion-like perfumes. The atmosphere will be truly enchanting, like stepping into a favorite fantasy novel or a Halloween dream, making it the perfect outing for lovers of fantasy, the paranormal, and all things Halloween.
Witches Night Out is not just a one-time affair – it’s poised to become an annual tradition that La Grange can be proud of. The town already has a reputation for rich history and ghostly legends (visitors and locals alike love the Spirits of La Grange ghost tours each October), and this event will add a fresh new chapter to that story. By launching Witches Night Out, the La Grange Main Street Program and From the Ground Up Books aim to weave a new celebration into the fabric of the community. Imagine every fall, the streets filling with costumed fun-seekers, music and laughter echoing off the historic buildings – a yearly spectacle that captures the imagination and draws folks from near and far. It’s an exciting step in keeping our downtown vibrant and our community connected, all while celebrating the spooky-season spirit we adore.
So grab your witch’s hat and gather your friends – whether you’re a lifelong La Grange local or a visitor looking for a one-of-a-kind Halloween-season experience, you won’t want to miss this bewitching night. Witches Night Out on October 24th promises to be an unforgettable evening of enchantment and community.
More Than Books: Events, Workshops & a Café on the Way
True to its name, From the Ground Up Books is building a whole ecosystem for creativity and community from the ground up. There’s always something happening beyond the bookshelves, making this bookstore a lively gathering place. Some highlights of what you can find or look forward to:
Author Events & Signings: The store regularly hosts authors – from Kentucky’s own rising stars to well-known writers – for book signings, readings, and Q&A sessions. It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet your favorite authors or discover new voices.
Writing Workshops & Groups: Have a story of your own to tell? From the Ground Up offers writing workshops and coaching sessions to help aspiring writers hone their craft. They even have a writers’ group and periodic contests that budding authors can join, fostering a supportive circle of creativity.
Book Clubs & Community Gatherings: Join fellow readers for book club meetings, themed literature nights, and group discussions. Whether it’s a monthly club pick or a special “midnight society” event to swap ghost stories, there’s a sense of camaraderie for everyone who loves stories.
Holistic and Wellness Events: In a unique twist, the bookstore sometimes partners with local wellness practitioners. You might find a weekend Holistic Fair, tarot readings, or even a Reiki session taking place, blending mind, body, and literature in a refreshing way.
Café & Wine Bar (Coming Soon): Perhaps one of the most exciting upcoming additions – the bookstore is planning to open an in-house café and wine bar at both locations. Imagine sipping a freshly brewed coffee or a glass of wine while you browse or during an open-mic poetry night. These café spaces (with outdoor seating and even live music nights planned) are set to roll out soon, transforming the stores into even more of a hangout spot.
All these offerings make From the Ground Up Books much more than a retail shop – it’s truly a cultural hub. You can spend an afternoon attending a workshop, come back in the evening for a book signing, and soon even enjoy a drink with friends, all under the same roof. The owners’ vision of a “vibrant community hub” is clearly coming to life step by step. It’s the kind of place where new ideas are always percolating (sometimes literally, with coffee on the way!). Be sure to check their calendar or social media for what’s happening during your visit; there might be a special event coinciding with your trip.
Plan Your Visit to From the Ground Up Books
With its rich blend of history, community, and passion for books, From the Ground Up Books has firmly established itself as a must-visit destination in Kentucky. If you’re planning a trip along the Bourbon Trail, a day trip from Louisville, or even a spooky October outing, make sure to put this bookstore on your itinerary. Both locations — La Grange’s historic Ballard House and the Shepherdsville Bourbon Trail shop — are ready to welcome you with open arms (and plenty of great reads).
When you visit, take your time to soak in the atmosphere. Chat with the knowledgeable staff about the local history or get their latest book recommendations. Browse the shelves for that perfect book souvenir. Snap a photo in front of the Ballard House’s beautiful exterior (you might even capture something supernatural in the window!). If a train comes by in La Grange, pause and enjoy the truly one-of-a-kind moment. In Shepherdsville, consider pairing your bookstore stop with a bourbon distillery tour for a day that feeds both mind and spirit.
And don’t be a stranger: if you find yourself falling in love with this bookstore (we’re sure you will), consider joining the Order of Midnight to become part of their story year-round, or follow their social media for updates on events like RailFest, author visits, and the café opening. From the Ground Up Books is more than a store – it’s a community hub built on a love for literature, local culture, and connecting people.
Ready for an adventure through books, history, and Kentucky charm? Come visit From the Ground Up Books in La Grange or Shepherdsville, and experience this gem for yourself. Whether you’re hunting for your next favorite novel, seeking out a ghostly tale, or just looking for a cozy spot to spend an afternoon, you’ll find a home here. Step inside, and let your story intertwine with the many stories on the shelves. We’ll see you in Kentucky’s most unforgettable bookstore!
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