May 28 A-E Source: Alibi Bookshop celebrates its seventh year in business

May 26-In the age of online shopping and e-books on Kindle devices, local bookstores have become a hidden gem in communities.

Alibi Bookshop owner Karen Finlay says that for her bookshop to stay in business for nearly seven years is a milestone she does not take for granted.

"It's pretty amazing to reach seven years," said Finlay. "We opened right before COVID, and I was worried we weren't going to make it past the first year. To hit lucky seven is very lucky indeed."

For Finlay, in-person communication and the chance to connect with the community are something that Amazon or Barnes and Noble can't offer.

"When things feel anxious and fraught, it is important to get out of the house and not click a button," Finlay said. "In terms of Barnes and Noble, the nearest one is in Fairfield. Here, you don't have to leave Vallejo."

Not only does in-person shopping allow for more connection, but book shopping itself can also be a personalized experience.

With selections of various genres, including works from local and global authors, guests can peruse through the aisles, flip through books, and take their time.

"When you shop on Amazon, all the money leaves the community," says Finlay. "Why give to billionaires when you can shop locally and help your own community?"

Though Alibi's anniversary is on Monday, June 1, the bookshop will hold a seventh anniversary party with a cake and "a few extra treats" on Saturday, June 6.

Although there is usually a raffle at the anniversary parties, this year's raffle will be different.

The prizes feature seven gift certificates to local businesses around Vallejo, instead of an Alibi Bookshop gift certificate.

While Finlay is still in the process of compiling a list of businesses, she said, "I love supporting our neighbors. I believe that small independent businesses are what make Vallejo so special and unique."

Guests who spend $50 will receive a raffle ticket. Similarly, those who purchase a book to donate to Another Chapter back-to-school book drive, guests will receive another raffle ticket.

"We are partnering with Another Chapter to have another summer book-drive so they can give away books for students at the beginning of the year," said Finlay.

Along with supporting local businesses, Finlay said she wanted to preserve and pay homage to Vallejo's rich history when she first named Alibi.

Alibi bookshop is named after the Alibi clock on Georgia St.

"When we took (the store) over from the previous owner, it was called Vallejo Bookstore. She requested that we change that name," said Finlay. "Vallejo is filled with so many tidbits of history. Not only is Alibi named after the clock on Georgia St., but 'A' is also at the beginning of the alphabet."

With downtown Vallejo slowly increasing in small businesses, Finlay says she is excited to be a part of it all.

"We have Home Sewn on the corner now. We're getting a café next door, and we have The Exchange across the street and Anchor Pantry," said Finlay. "We're just so happy to be on Marin Street and to be a part of the growing community and Vallejo's history."

Finlay says that Alibi Bookshop would not be the same without the rich history of Vallejo, the increase in small businesses opening downtown, and most importantly, the support of the community.

"Vallejo is a diverse community," says Finlay. "It is a joy to be a part of it. We're here because Vallejo needs and deserves to have a bookstore."

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This story was originally published May 26, 2026 at 7:20 PM.