Our Mission

Harper-Books’ mission is to provide a gathering space which encourages the intellectual and thoughtful sharing of ideas among community members.  The locally owned independent bookstore is committed to offering affordable new and used books, gifts, and educational items and providing a community gathering space for lectures, author signings, trivia nights, and musical talent. We are passionate about reading and the arts, politics, theology, and discussing the issues facing all of us today.

Our History

Jenni Harper, a life-long resident of the greater Tri-City area, has envisioned a bookstore / coffee shop as long as she can remember. Previously, Jenni co-owned “The Beat Cafe”, a local coffee shop / deli which had a music theme and a fast paced atmosphere. While this wasn’t the original vision of the business, it only helped to feed Jenni’s desire to create the space that’s been living in her head so many years. Thus, Harper-Books is born. Jenni has worked in the energy industry for the past fourteen years. Jenni currently serves on several non-profit and civic boards, including Leadership Tri-Cities, Cleantech Alliance, Drive Electric Washington, Mid-Columbia Energy Initiative, and the City of Kennewick’s Historic Preservation Commission.

Mark Harper is originally from Galveston, Texas but has lived in the Tri-Cities since 1996. Mark’s passion is in discussing politics and religion, the two things you are supposed to keep to yourself. Mark’s vision is a “thinking man’s bar”, a place where all are free to discuss those taboo topics that get you un-invited from family dinners.

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