The Ponte Vedra Recorder spoke with Paula Nardon, manager of Seymour’s Bookstore, and Linda Profaizer, bookstore/Friends of the Library Ponte Vedra Beach editor, about the popular shop located inside the St. Johns County Public Library System’s Ponte Vedra Beach Branch Library.
Here’s that interview.
How did Seymour's Bookstore get started?
Seymour’s Bookstore has been part of the Ponte Vedra Beach Branch Library since it was founded in 2003 by the Friends of the Library (FOL). It grew out of a need to find a permanent location for selling donated books, growing from sporadic sales events into a thriving permanent bookstore.
The name comes from a community naming contest, where a local student suggested Seymour (If you read books you “see more” of the world around you), the friendly bookworm who has become the store’s mascot. Since its inception, the bookstore has been powered entirely by volunteers and fueled by generous community donations of gently used books and media.
Tell us a bit about Seymour's Bookstore and how it helps raise funds for the library.
Seymour’s is a volunteer-run used bookstore located inside the library, offering a wide selection of books, puzzles and media at very affordable prices. Every purchase directly supports the Friends of the Library, which funds approximately 95% of the Ponte Vedra Beach Branch Library’s programs, along with materials, equipment and enhancements to the space. It’s a wonderful example of the community supporting the library in a very tangible way — donate a book, buy a book and give back!
How has the bookstore helped support new library projects recently?
Seymour’s has been a key contributor to several important initiatives, most notably the current Children’s Library renovation.
In addition to its ongoing support of library programs and materials, the bookstore has participated in special fundraising efforts, such as dedicating proceeds during select months, to help bring the renovation to life.
In 2025 alone, Seymour’s reached a record milestone of over $100,000 in sales, all of which goes back into supporting the library. Last summer, Seymour’s donated over 3,000 children’s books to support the Summer Reading Challenge at the Ponte Vedra Library. Parents and children alike were thrilled with the great selections. This year’s 2026 Summer Reading Challenge lasts eight weeks and will kick off with a Fun Foam Party on May 30 at the Ponte Vedra Beach Library.
Tell us about any updates for the Children's Library renovations.
The Children’s Library is currently undergoing a much-anticipated renovation to create a more engaging, flexible and welcoming space for young readers and families.
The redesigned area will feature improved visibility and supervision, updated furnishings and expanded hands-on learning opportunities, including enhanced STEM and interactive elements. During construction, children’s materials and programming have been temporarily relocated to the Community Room in the library so families can continue to enjoy services.
This project reflects the FOL’s and community’s strong commitment to early literacy and lifelong learning. Construction is underway and will be completed before the end of this summer. This is a very exciting time for all of us. The fruits of our efforts will be seen as we transform the Children’s Area Library.
How do volunteers support fundraising?
Volunteers are truly the heart of Seymour’s. More than 40 dedicated volunteers donate thousands of hours each year sorting donations, stocking shelves, pricing items and assisting customers. Their efforts ensure the bookstore runs smoothly and remains well-stocked with quality selections. Beyond the bookstore, volunteers also support Friends of the Library events, membership efforts and outreach — all of which contribute to fundraising and community engagement.
What would you like our readers to know about Seymour’s Bookstore and how they can get involved?
Seymour’s is more than a bookstore — it’s a community meeting place that helps keep our library vibrant and thriving. Whether you’re looking for your next great read, a puzzle or a way to give back, Seymour’s offers something for everyone.
There are many ways to get involved: donate gently used books, shop the store, become a Friends of the Library member, or volunteer your time. Every contribution — big or small — helps support the library and the programs that enrich our community.
“Seymour’s is truly a reflection of this community,” said Paula Nardon. “Every book donated, every purchase made, and every volunteer hour given helps strengthen our library and ensures it continues to be a vibrant place for learning, connection and discovery.”
When donating books, you often hear Paula say, “We will do our best to get the right books into the right hands at the right price!”
Seymour’s sorters and pricers work collaboratively with the library program coordinators and often find the perfect book for the librarians to use when preparing for upcoming programs and projects. Seymour’s is a huge resource to support their efforts.
Dum Dum lollipops have been the long-time treat when visiting Seymour’s. Young and young-at-heart enjoy selecting their favorite iconic pop! We’ve added a new twist to this activity by giving children 10 and under a chance to win $1 off in our bookstore or a fun crochet bookworm bookmark should they be lucky enough to find the specially marked Dum Dum!
Thank you to our book donors, volunteers and loyal customers for supporting the Ponte Vedra Library through Seymour’s Bookstore! Our success is not possible without your support!
Learn more at: https://folpvbfl.org/seymours-bookstore.
