Hi, I am Melissa. At the core I am a mother, a wife, and a sister...

I'm also a former Literature and Writing professor and have had a passion for books since my great-grandmother took me to the library to get my first library card at the age of four.

During the turbulence of 2020, I started an online book club called The Spine & Vine, which evolved into a bookstagram and book & wine blog. Truthfully, I have always dreamed of having my own bookstore, but that dream always felt out of grasp--like a place floating far away that might never be more than a place my mind would go when I wanted to escape. After starting my blog, local book club, and connecting with authors and readers across the globe, the dream of a bookstore kept tugging on my heart. I became inspired by photos of vintage bookmobiles and saved so many. One day, something clicked, and I realized a mobile bookstore could be my "food truck version" of a bookstore. And so, the vision of my mobile bookstore began...

After years of searching for the right match, I came across a 1971 Volkswagen Transporter in the fall of 2023 and decided it was the one. With the help of my local community and friends, I was up and running by April of 2024. The Spine & Vine Mobile Bookstore had its big debut on National Independent Bookstore Day, and we've been connecting with readers and writers ever since. 

At its core, The Spine & Vine Mobile Bookstore is an independent bookstore on wheels committed to providing quality books for all types of readers—as well as bookish gifts and cards. The Spine & Vine sells adult and children's books, mugs, bookmarks, bookish apparel, totes, book sleeves, stickers, and more.

My main purpose is to serve and connect with the community and to inspire a passion for reading to all ages. I hope to continue bringing books to the people are, whether that’s at a local market, winery, coffee shop, or at one of my many favorite local small businesses.

This online store is phase two of The Spine & Vine Mobile Bookstore, and has been a long time coming. Phase three will hopefully be a brick and mortar. I am so excited you are here. Happy reading!