Novel Refuge: A Community Bookstore with Purpose, Heart and a Mission 

This Independent Bookstore Day, there’s one bookstore in Howard County that embodies the best of what local shops can be. Novel Refuge is a nonprofit, volunteer-run used bookstore located in Laurel, Maryland—but it’s also much more than that. It’s a mission-driven community space, a resource for refugee support and a second life for thousands of books. 

“I wanted to marry the two things that I loved and were passionate about. So the bookstore was born,” said the founder of Novel Refuge. 

That spark of inspiration grew into a 501(c)(3) public charity with a dual focus: promote literacy and sustainability while raising funds for local refugee resettlement services. Every donated book, every purchase and every visit to Novel Refuge contributes directly to that goal. 

The Meaning Behind the Name “Novel Refuge” 

The name Novel Refuge is layered with significance. The “novel” part, of course, speaks to books—but also to doing something new and meaningful. 

“I was formerly a teacher. I’ve always been passionate about books. Obviously, it’s a bookstore. So, that’s where the novel came from. But also, we were doing something new. And so we liked the plan [play] on words of novel that way as well,” the founder explained. 

But it’s the “refuge” part of Novel Refuge that speaks to the heart of the organization. This bookstore was founded with the goal of supporting refugees—and the store itself has become a kind of refuge in multiple ways. 

“Refuge, of course, from our work with refugees—we raise funds, that we then donate to local refugee organizations, but also as a refuge for books and keeping books out of the landfill and giving them a second life, just like the people who are coming to our country.” 

Why Novel Refuge Chose Howard County 

From the beginning, Howard County felt like the right place to plant roots. The area’s welcoming culture and strong support for immigrant and refugee communities aligned perfectly with the store’s mission. 

“We like Howard County for a number of reasons. The diversity here is wonderful. The support that the county government gives to immigrants and refugees and finding a lot of immigrant and refugee run businesses in this area. And just a feeling that we would have support from the neighborhood and the community to help us get off the ground was beneficial.” 

And the community did show up—early and often. Customers didn’t just come in to browse; they showed genuine interest in the mission, donated books, brought their friends and helped spread the word. 

“It’s been very welcoming. We like our shopping center, we like the community and the customers that we have are fabulous. I can’t speak highly enough about the customers that wander into our store on a daily basis and are so supportive of what we do and that’s really made a difference in helping us get started.” 

Supporting Local, Building Community 

In a time when online shopping dominates and many retail dollars leave local communities, Novel Refuge offers a meaningful alternative. 

“We are doing our best to give back to people who live right here in our very own community,” the founder said. “And unlike many of the online retailers and big box stores where things are headquartered elsewhere and their tax dollars and everything are based other places, you know, we are supporting Howard County and I think that’s very important.” 

That local-first mindset is one of the reasons Novel Refuge stands out. It’s not just a bookstore—it’s a space that belongs to the community. The store is entirely volunteer-run, with all proceeds supporting refugee aid, local nonprofits and literacy programming. 

Reclaiming Space in a Digital World 

Beyond its mission, Novel Refuge offers something that’s become increasingly rare in our digital-first world: a place to slow down, connect and spend time with others. 

“I’d love for this to be a place where just people feel comfortable to come and spend time, you know, everything’s going online, but it’s nice—you lose the community.” 

After years of social distancing and virtual everything, the need for in-person community spaces has never been greater. 

“I think we all suffered through that. Enough with Covid and everything being online that now is the time to come back and we gather and make a community space.” 

That’s already happening at Novel Refuge. Customers aren’t just coming to shop—they’re staying to talk, share book recommendations and connect with others over a shared love of reading. 

“Our customers that have already mentioned have been so wonderful and bringing in their friends and just coming and hanging out and, you know, talking and sharing the books that we enjoy. As as readers, we hope to do more community events as we progress. And, you know, as we become more comfortable in our space here.” 

A Sustainable Mission with Impact 

Novel Refuge is also a bookstore with an environmental mission. By keeping thousands of used books, puzzles and games out of landfills, the organization helps reduce waste and extends the life of beloved items. Every book is donated and every sale helps fulfill the store’s broader purpose. 

Whether you’re shopping for a book, donating your collection or looking to volunteer, Novel Refuge gives you a chance to make a difference—right here in Howard County. 

Visit, Donate or Get Involved 

Novel Refuge is located in Laurel, Maryland and open to anyone looking for a good book and a better way to support the community. The store accepts donations of gently used books, games and puzzles and always welcomes new volunteers to help carry out its mission. 

To learn more about the store, its mission or how you can help, visit novelrefuge.org. 

This Independent Bookstore Day, support a bookstore that supports others. Visit Novel Refuge and be part of a story that’s still being written.