Daily Inspiration: Meet Lauren Rinke

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Rinke

Hi Lauren , we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
As an avid reader and educator, I have always had a passion for literacy and spreading my love for literature. But books are expensive! I started this mobile bookstore to make reading affordable and accessible to everyone. I just wrapped up my second year in business, and the response has been so positive and encouraging!

In addition to selling books, I also just started a free summer literacy program with the Title 1 schools in Clarkston. Any children’s books donated to the bus go right back into the community, to young people who don’t have access to the library or money to spend on books.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t been a completely smooth road, but every challenge has taught me valuable lessons and shaped my journey for the better. One significant struggle was when I was planning to open a brick-and-mortar store. I announced my plans a bit too soon on social media, and unfortunately, someone else took the opportunity to act on the idea before I could. It was a tough moment, but rather than dwell on it, I used it as a chance to reevaluate and pivot.

That’s when the idea for a mobile bookstore was born, and it ended up being the perfect fit—not just for me, but for my family and my customers as well. Operating a mobile bookstore allows me to keep overhead costs low, and I’ve been able to pass those savings directly to my customers through more affordable prices and unique experiences. The flexibility of a mobile business has also given me more time to focus on what truly matters, like building connections with my community and sharing a love for books in a way that feels personal and accessible.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
At Big Oak Books, I’m all about creating connections through the power of storytelling. As a mobile bookstore, I specialize in curating a carefully chosen selection of books that inspire readers of all ages. From timeless classics to (used) new releases that highlight diverse voices and experiences, my mission is to ensure everyone can see themselves—and others—in the stories I share.

What sets Big Oak Books apart is my commitment to building community. This isn’t just a bookstore; it’s a gathering place on wheels, popping up at farmers’ markets, community events, schools, and local neighborhoods. I love sparking conversations, fostering connections, and creating an inviting space where people can fall in love with reading.

One of the things I’m most proud of is my focus on showcasing books that celebrate inclusion, diversity, and the many unique perspectives that make up our world. Whether it’s introducing young readers to stories that reflect their experiences or helping adults discover new voices, my goal is to inspire empathy, curiosity, and a deeper appreciation for the world around us.

At the heart of Big Oak Books is my genuine passion for fostering joy and connection through reading. I believe that stories have the power to bring people together, and every time someone walks away from my mobile bookstore with a book they’re excited about, it feels like a little victory for community, creativity, and growth.

Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Something surprising that most people who know me or my work with Big Oak Books might not know is that my journey has been deeply rooted in education. Since my undergraduate days, I’ve worked in education, teaching everyone from babies to adult learners. That experience shaped my passion for fostering curiosity, building connections, and inspiring lifelong learning—values that are at the heart of my bookstore.

I’m also deeply passionate about social justice, clear communication, and transparency. I believe that empathy is one of the most powerful tools we have, and it’s something I try to bring into everything I do—whether it’s choosing books for Big Oak Books or interacting with my community.

On a more personal note, I’m a mother of two and share my home with a lively collection of pets, making my life a blend of joyful chaos and constant learning. These roles have taught me so much about patience, perspective, and the importance of finding joy in small moments—all of which influence the way I approach my work and my relationships with customers.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://bookshop.org/shop/bigoakbooks
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigoakbooks
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090428618255