TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — Syrena Arevalo-Trujillo has sold books at pop-up shops around Tucson for the past two years. Now, she finally has her own store to call home.
"When people walk in, I want them to feel like they've stepped into South Tucson," said Arevalo-Trujillo.
Bright colors, art and books are found in every corner of her new shop. Arevalo-Trujillo put the finishing touches on a lifelong dream, Tuesday.
"There's a lot of history in here as well. Even just the stuff that is on the walls," said Arevalo-Trujillo.
The store's walls belong to Hotel McCoy. The hotel is giving select small businesses the space to shine. They are allowing them to turn one of their rooms into their own. Arevalo-Trujillo's store, "Barrio Books", will be the hotel's first launch.
"Hotel McCoy was actually looking for a bookstore, or someone who was willing to run a bookstore," said Arevalo-Trujillo.
Arevalo-Trujillo gets to run her store rent-free. It's a gift from the hotel to the business, who may not have otherwise been able to open their doors during a year like 2020.
"My inspiration is all the people that want to escape the pandemic. I want them to escape into books," said Arevalo-Trujillo.
Arevalo-Trujillo shares a special connection with her collection of books. Each book was picked to highlight Hispanic culture.
"It's about a lot more than just books. It's about culture and history of South Tucson," said Arevalo-Trujillo.
Barrio Books will open at Hotel McCoy on January 2, 2021.
Hotel McCoy is located at 720 W Silverlake Road.
