Spring on 4th DYK Series #7 - The Bookstore Speakeasy

Lehigh University offers many courses in the Baker Institute for Entrepreneurialism, Creativity and Innovation that give students an opportunity to learn from other entrepreneurs in business and in society. One course offered in the spring is ENT 198: Art Entrepreneurship Community. In this course, students explore the dynamic relationship between art(ist), producer (public, private, single & multiple) and audience. A significant part of their learning is through applying their own talents to the annual Spring on Fourth festival. Through this practicum, students have seen the impact of their work in terms of relationship building between the South Bethlehem business community and the campus. 

They have also been given a great opportunity to see how a festival impacts local businesses. These local businesses are the backbone of the local economy; and students are learning all of their owners by name - and not by name tag. They have become very familiar with the assets of the community around their campus - and are coming to understand the value and shared responsibility of supporting a local economy through events and festivals that raise the quality of life for all citizens who live and work in the same zip code.

The Bookstore Speakeasy: 336 Adams Street, Bethlehem, PA 18015

               The Bookstore Speakeasy on is hands down one of the most fun nightlife experiences you will have on Bethlehem’s Southside.  It’s location and visibility however, are on the secretive side, perhaps to fully play the part of the traditional Prohibition-era speakeasy. You see, speakeasies were the popular (albeit illegal) venue to hang out during the Prohibition.

               If you find yourself on Adams Street in between the hours of “5pm and late,” walk slowly, and you’re bound to come across a dimly lit entryway with a door that simply tells it how it is: “The Bookstore.” Don’t let the simplicity fool you, once you step inside you’ll find a menu filled with extravagant prohibition-era cocktails, premium craft beers and elegant wines.

My roommates and I recently ventured over to Adams Street, and decided to take a peek inside this hidden speakeasy. It was jammed packed, and everyone was having a great time. The room filled with bits and pieces of floating small talk and deep conversation. Glasses were clinking and bartenders were beautifully orchestrating the continuous drink orders filled with only the highest quality ingredients.

The highlight of the night however, was the playful live jazz music, which makes The Bookstore experience go over-the-top.  Walking in this place is like stepping into a time machine. In just this one location, the live music, the beautiful drinks and ecstatic atmosphere wonderfully combine art and pleasure.

MaryLeah DiNisco, Lehigh Unviersity, class of 2013