Member Spotlight – Twice Told Tales
A crowd gathered on December 12th to celebrate Katelyn Cortez’s new ownership of Twice Told Tales, the beloved new and used bookstore located at 104 S. Main Street in downtown McPherson. The event included a Chamber Connection and Ribbon Cutting ceremony, marking a significant milestone in the store’s next chapter.
When Cortez saw on Facebook this summer that Twice Told Tales was up for sale, she knew it was the opportunity she had been waiting for.
“I prayed about it, and I just said, ‘God, if this is not where you want me – if this is not the path I’m supposed to walk down – then I need you to put roadblocks in my way that are so big that I cannot get over them’” Cortez said. “And there’s not been a single one. And it has just been going full speed ahead. I think that when you’re doing something that is for the Lord’s purpose, roadblocks will be moved for you, and He will be glorified through it all.”
One of the key “roadblocks” cleared for Cortez was securing funding for her new venture. During the ceremony, she was presented with a giant check representing a $10,000 McPherson County E-Community loan. Facilitated by the McPherson Chamber in partnership with NetWork Kansas, this loan is designed to support local entrepreneurs in their efforts to start and grow businesses. Entrepreneurs also receive valuable guidance and resources from the Chamber’s committee, which includes representatives from local banks, law firms, and other industries.
“I could tell from the very moment that I talked to Katelyn that she definitely had a passion for this, and I loved that when she presented to our E-Community committee that she was very confident – ‘this is what I want, this is how I’m going to do it and make it a success.’ You definitely have,” said Chamber executive director Debbie Hawkinson. “I love that you’ve created such a community space.”
Under Cortez’s stewardship, Twice Told Tales has seen exciting growth and change. She’s added cozy seating areas, introduced locally sourced products, and boosted the store’s social media presence to promote new offerings. Cortez has also been actively involved in the community, participating in various local events.
“Every month has been incredible with sales, and watching this place take off even more has just been everything to me,” said Cortez.
In November, Twice Told Tales set a new record with 1,077 books sold. Cortez is optimistic that with the community-centered events she has planned for the new year, the bookstore’s success will continue to build momentum.
Twice Told Tales is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. Stay up to date with the latest book recommendations and events by following the bookstore on Facebook. And check out photos of the December 13th Chamber Connection and Ribbon Cutting.
