For Sophia Terry, books have always been more than stories on a shelf. They are a way to connect people, build community, and create spaces where everyone feels welcome. As the manager of Bank Square Books, Sophia has become one of the young leaders helping shape the next chapter of one of Mystic’s most beloved independent bookstores.

A lifelong Mystic resident, Sophia grew up within walking distance of downtown Mystic and attended Groton Public Schools and The Williams School before graduating from Smith College in 2022 with a degree in history and archival studies. After college, she returned home and began working with organizations including the Mystic Seaport Collections and Research Center and the James Merrill House before applying for a bookseller position at Bank Square Books, a place she had loved since childhood.

What began as a part-time opportunity quickly evolved into a career. Sophia was promoted to Assistant Manager in 2023 and stepped into the role of manager last September during a transformative period for the bookstore. Over the past several years, Bank Square Books has experienced major changes, including new ownership and relocation to its current home on Stonington Road, all while continuing to serve as a cultural cornerstone for the community.

At the same time, Sophia pursued a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science from Simmons University, which she completed this past December. Balancing graduate school with the fast-paced demands of bookstore management has helped shape her leadership style and deepen her commitment to creating meaningful community spaces.

“A core part of Bank Square Books’ mission is to serve the community,” Sophia shared. “We strive to create a space where anyone can come in, spend time, discover new books and authors, and connect with others through the common language of books.”

Under Sophia’s leadership in collaboration with Devyn LeMay, who is the Event Coordinator at the store, the bookstore has expanded its role as a true gathering place. The store now hosts four book clubs, a knitting club, a Dungeons & Dragons group, author events, and collaborations with local organizations including the James Merrill House, Thought Fox Writers Den, and Stonington Pride. The bookstore also partners with local libraries, schools, museums, and community organizations throughout the region.

One of Sophia’s favorite traditions is the annual “Where’s Waldo?” scavenger hunt organized through nearby businesses each summer, bringing families and local merchants together in a fun and interactive way. “It gives us an opportunity to connect directly with neighboring businesses and create a summer tradition for people of all ages,” she said.

Sophia credits much of her inspiration to her parents, particularly her mother, a professor of art and design at Connecticut College whose work focuses on environmental and community-centered design. She also draws inspiration from fellow bookstore workers, local organizations, and small businesses working to strengthen communities through creativity and connection.

Outside of work, Sophia is passionate about music, travel, film, and languages. She played cello growing up, participated in a Celtic music group and a Javanese Gamelan ensemble in college, and even hosted a world music radio show. She has also been teaching herself Spanish while exploring interests in Latin, Italian, and Old English studies.

Sophia also wanted to recognize two people who have helped shape her journey at Bank Square Books: Douglas Riggs, the store’s previous manager and current co-owner, and Dan Morosky, whom she describes as “the quiet backbone of Bank Square” after more than 30 years with the bookstore.

“This recognition is meaningful not only for me as a young professional, but also as a lifelong Mystic resident and for Bank Square Books in its newest iteration,” Sophia shared. “I never envisioned being where I am now, but it’s hard to imagine being anywhere else.”

The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce is honored to recognize Sophia Terry for her passion, leadership, and dedication to creating spaces that bring people together. Through her work at Bank Square Books, Sophia is helping preserve the heart of independent bookstores while fostering a stronger, more connected community.