Elizabeth Foster loves sharing literature so much that she opened Inkwell Booksellers Company in northeast Minneapolis five weeks ago.

"I love books, they're my favorite thing. I love talking about them. I love sharing recommendations," Foster said.

The former administrative professional and self-proclaimed book nerd has spent the last two years planning for the bookstore and coffee shop.

"Northeast in general was always my plan," Foster said.

She was drawn to the vibe and walkability of the neighborhood, and the open space on the ground floor of Hencen Apartments.

"I just fell in love with the light, the weird, wonky ceiling, the shape of it. It just seemed to scream to me community space, a bookstore, a coffee shop. Everything that we wanted it to be," Foster said.

It intentionally features large seating areas to encourage socialization.

You're also welcome to bring your pooch when you come in to page through books.

"Now more than ever, we need community. There's a lot of things that divide us. There's a lot of work from home that keeps you isolated so having a community space to me was very important because it's something I felt I needed more of," Foster said.

Brooke Monaghan is on her first visit to Inkwell with her husband, David, and their 10-month-old daughter, Blair.

"My husband wanted to plan something, a little outing for my birthday, which is today. He knows I like to get coffee, and I like to read. I like that it's a little bit on the outside of not having to go into downtown, but still have the easy access and all of that," Monaghan said.

Foster hopes that access will allow Inkwell to build community here — one story at a time.

A story Foster recommends is "Bookshops and Bonedust" by Travis Baldree.

"It is a prequel to his last release. It just helps celebrate love, friendship, and adventure," Foster said.

Inkwell Booksellers company is open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.