Non-traditional bookstore full of eclectic merchandise

18.05.12

Inner Wisdom is something of an oddity in Galesburg.

From the outside, it looks like little more than a pleasant, small town bookstore. Walking through the first glass door of the store at 31 N. Kellogg St. one sees Buddhist statues and artwork from the Far and Middle East.

The second door opens with a jingle. The smells of downtown Galesburg are replaced with the enticing aroma of nag champa incense. The walls are lined with bookshelves filled with titles about the Dalai Lama, Wiccan traditions, and all sorts of guides for spiritual health.

Lianna Ita, store owner and operator, sits chatting with her boyfriend, Tom Mastin, on a couch in the middle of the room. A faux fireplace gives off artificial heat around the center sitting area where another couch and a large, cushioned chair entice.

Ita, in a practiced yet sincere tone, asks, “Did you have any questions?” In a store with such fascinating wares, there are plenty of questions to ask. A response of, “Not just yet, but I’m sure I will,” seems appropriate before continuing to explore the enchanting merchandise.

Source: Galesburg Register-Mail