Bristol, Virginia, September 5, 2025
News Summary
The Dragonfly Book Bar has officially opened in downtown Bristol, Virginia, merging a cozy bar and a bookstore to become a vibrant community hub. The establishment, owned by friends Rene Rodgers and Sara Beth Hitt, offers a selection of new and used books, as well as various beverages and food options featuring local cuisine. With a whimsical dark academia theme, Dragonfly Book Bar aims to create a sanctuary for book enthusiasts and will host events including readings and author signings.
New Dragonfly Book Bar Opens in Downtown Bristol, Offering Books and Cozy Atmosphere
Downtown Bristol, Virginia, has welcomed a new establishment, the Dragonfly Book Bar, which combines a bookstore and a cozy bar into a vibrant community gathering space. Located at 625 State Street, the book bar aims to provide a sanctuary for book lovers and social enthusiasts alike.
Owned by lifelong friends Rene Rodgers and Sara Beth Hitt, the Dragonfly Book Bar features a diverse selection of both new and used books available for purchase. The atmosphere is designed to be welcoming and comfortable, giving visitors a chance to relax and immerse themselves in reading, dining, or socializing with friends.
The bar offers an array of beverages, including wine, champagne, and various non-alcoholic drinks to cater to all patrons. Complementing the drink selection, the menu showcases an assortment of food items featuring dishes crafted by local chef T. Menu highlights include parfaits, sandwiches, quiche, pickles, and cookies, enhancing the cozy ambiance with delightful culinary options.
The Dragonfly Book Bar aims to establish itself as a “third space”, a comfortable and inviting environment that is neither home nor work. This concept encourages visitors to come and unwind, whether to enjoy a meal, sip on a drink, or delve into a good book.
In addition to its inviting atmosphere, the Dragonfly Book Bar plans to host various events, including book readings, author signings, and unique book and wine pairings. This will further solidify its place as a cultural hub for the downtown area of Bristol, enhancing community engagement around literature and the arts.
The establishment is designed with a whimsical and dark academia vibe, which adds to its unique experience for visitors. This distinct theme draws inspiration from literary aesthetics, making it a visually stimulating place for patrons to spend time. The hours of operation are Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.
Rene Rodgers highlighted a notable gap in the downtown area’s cultural landscape, noting the absence of bookstores since her childhood. The duo aims to create a welcoming and inclusive space for book lovers in Bristol, catering to those seeking connection over shared interests.
Features of the Dragonfly Book Bar
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | 625 State Street, Bristol, Virginia |
| Offerings | Selection of new and used books, wine, champagne, and non-alcoholic beverages |
| Food Menu | Parfaits, sandwiches, quiche, pickles, cookies, and more |
| Atmosphere | Cozy, whimsical, and dark academia vibe |
| Events | Book readings, author signings, and book and wine pairings |
| Hours | Mon, Thurs, Fri, Sat: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Sun: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. |
FAQs
What is the Dragonfly Book Bar?
The Dragonfly Book Bar is a new establishment in downtown Bristol, Virginia, that combines a bookstore and a bar, offering an extensive selection of new and used books along with a variety of beverages and food items.
What type of food and drinks can be found at the Dragonfly Book Bar?
The Dragonfly Book Bar serves wine, champagne, non-alcoholic drinks, and a menu featuring dishes like parfaits, sandwiches, quiche, pickles, and cookies.
What events will be hosted at the Dragonfly Book Bar?
The establishment plans to host book readings, author signings, and book and wine pairing events, encouraging community engagement around literature.
What ambiance does the Dragonfly Book Bar offer?
The book bar’s design reflects a whimsical and dark academia vibe, creating an inviting space for patrons to relax and enjoy their time.
What are the hours of operation?
The Dragonfly Book Bar operates Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WCYB: New Dragonfly Book Bar Opens in Downtown Bristol
- Wikipedia: Dragonfly
- WCYB: Gallery of New Dragonfly Book Bar
- Google Search: Dragonfly Book Bar Bristol
- WCYB: Dragonfly Book Bar Now Open on State Street
- Google Scholar: Book Bar Concept
- WCYB: Dragonfly Book Bar to Open on State Street
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Book Bar
- WCYB: Gallery of New Dragonfly Book Bar
- Google News: Dragonfly Book Bar Bristol
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
