Books are my Third Place was created as a refuge for readers—a place to connect + grow a community of fellow book lovers, delight in literary luxuries from your favorite fandoms, and help you discover your next great read.

Why ‘Books are my Third Place’?

The concept of “third places” comes from sociology, a term coined by Ray Oldenburg. People have three main places: home, work, and third places—where you build community and connect with others around shared interests and hobbies. In the past these typically were places like cafes, churches, parks, members clubs, etc.

BAMTP and my shop, Valor & Lore, gives a nod to the cozy, sophisticated feeling of salons of the last century, but with a touch of modern whimsy, and the fantastical. No stuffiness. No pretentiousness.

Today, BAMTP strives to deliver a true sense of community, discovery, and connection around our shared love of great books, with a penchant for literary luxuries.

I’m honored to share this virtual ‘third place’ with you.

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SHOP VALOR & lORE

Meet the Creator + Founder, Ashley

I’ve always been a voracious reader. I grew up in a tiny town with no TV, so books were my entertainment, a way to escape the bullies, and to dream in the land of what if.

Booktok is my found family. A special little corner of TikTok—a place I can be myself with fellow nerds. I am so grateful for the friends and community it’s led me to.

That’s why I started BAMTP: It’s the best feeling to nerd out over favorite reads, help people discover new ones, and design thoughtful items for their favorite fandoms.

When I’m not reading, I’m a Marketing + Brand Consultant, Startup Advisor, and former VP of Marketing, with 15+ years of Marketing + Leadership Development experience. I love to talk all things brand storytelling, so if you need help, let’s chat!

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