I am Nicki Truesdell, founder of Knowledge Keepers Bookstore. Around 2018, I began compiling lists of great books that I think should be in every home. These are books worthy of a “knowledge keepers library,” a home library that preserves American history in printed form.
With the rise of questionably accurate websites, changeable e-books, and artificial intelligence, it’s more important than ever for families to own and read printed books.
In 2020, I began publishing old and out-of-print American history titles that I found in thrift shops and library discard piles.
My goal is to find and print as many of these old journals, letters, autobiographies, and eyewitness accounts as possible.
What about audio books?
People ask me often if these books will be available on audio. I love audio books, trust me! But the goal of Knowledge Keepers has always been to encourage people to own and preserve the printed word. There’s something valuable about a library collection that is read and passed down to your children and grandchildren. You can’t do that with your eBooks or audiobooks.
Why Amazon?
A few of you have asked if there is any other way to purchase besides Amazon. Believe me, if I had a warehouse to stock a huge inventory, I’d gladly process orders myself. But with over 20 titles, it’s not possible for me right now.
Amazon is my publisher, and they offer free Prime shipping. Most of my customers enjoy the ease of shopping through a company they already use for other products.
How do you choose new books?
Sometimes a good idea comes to mind and I search the web for old books that match. Other times I find an old book for sale and decide it would make a great addition to the Knowledge Keepers collection. Either way, I’m constantly on the lookout for more!
One of my criteria for final choices is “easy to read.” Some old books are too wordy or the language is old-fashioned and difficult for the modern reader. I want these books to be a pleasure, not a chore. And I love that many of them are accessible to kids!