About Rose House Books
Where a Love of Learning Became a Place for Belonging
Some dreams take years to write.
For nearly twenty-five years, Rose House Books founder Sarah Bodell dedicated her career to inspiring young minds as a public school music educator. Through world music drumming, performance, and creative exploration, she built an exemplary elementary music program founded on curiosity, connection, and the belief that the arts enrich every life.
Over the years, another lifelong passion continued to grow alongside her love of music: books.
Reading has always been a place of discovery, comfort, imagination, and inspiration. Sarah envisioned creating a space where others could experience those same feelings—a place where people could slow down, gather with friends, enjoy meaningful conversation, and lose themselves in a great story.
That vision became Rose House Books.
Housed in the beautifully restored historic Rose House, adjacent to Monroe’s Arts Center, Rose House Books was created to be more than a bookstore. It is a welcoming destination where literature, art, music, food, and community come together under one roof.
Guests are invited to explore thoughtfully curated book rooms, each with its own atmosphere and personality, discover unique literary gifts and handcrafted treasures, enjoy expertly prepared coffee and café offerings, relax with a handcrafted mocktail, or simply spend an afternoon surrounded by books in a comfortable chair.
Every detail has been chosen with intention—from the carefully selected collections to the warm, inviting spaces that encourage people to linger, connect, and return often.
At its heart, Rose House Books reflects Sarah’s belief that stories have the power to educate, inspire, and bring people together. After a career devoted to helping children discover the joy of music, she is honored to begin a new chapter dedicated to fostering a love of reading throughout Monroe and Green County.
Whether you’re searching for your next favorite novel, meeting a friend for coffee, attending an event, or simply looking for a quiet place to unwind, we hope you’ll feel at home here.
Because the best stories aren’t just found in books—they’re also created in the places where people gather.
Welcome to Rose House Books.
