The Atlas Collective
What's the story behind the name (and the owner) of the QC's new indie book shop? I just had to ask!
There’s a new indie bookstore downtown Mo Town (a.k.a. Moline, Ill.) — and if you didn’t already enjoy knowing that it’s a local business and minority owned, how about the fact that it employs a “Caffeine Overlord?”
Kara Taghon, owner of The Atlas Collective, opened the shop earlier this year and is approaching six months in business. As she told The Quad-City Times upon the shop’s opening, she initially moved to the QC from the Chicago suburbs to teach at United Township High School and fell in love with the community. Her impetus to start the business was feeling her own need for a “third space.”
From featuring works from a variety of voices, to ordering stickers and other merch that celebrates diversity, to offering book club events focused on queer lit, it’s clear that the collective’s overall philosophy is is inclusivity. The Atlas Collective is described on Facebook as woman and queer-owned. (And as having a “Caffeine Overlord”! (Aka Elijah Israel, a Rock Island native.)
When I’ve stopped by to purchase something to read or some small gifts, attended a book club meeting (like for this funny-yet-frustrating book), and/or to grab a beverage after finishing a yoga class at a nearby studio, I’ve been heartened to see the shop busy—if not downright bustling. Here’s what I found when I walked in the door in the middle of Indie Bookstore Day (April 27) :
After one recent visit, I approached the owner, Kara Taghon, and Brooke Matheis, the collective’s creative director, to ask if they’d let me throw a few questions at them (including the ones for my Official Quad Citizen Quiz). I hope you enjoy the results, and that you’ll support this local business when you get the chance! (Next time you’re tempted to order a book from you-know where, consider ordering through their website instead.)
Three-Question Interview for Atlas Collective Founder & CEO Kara Taghon:
As someone who is passionate about books, what's your favorite genre and why?
I am certainly a genre hopper, but my go-to genre is typically fantasy or horror, current favorite being the Darker Shade of Magic trilogy 1 by V.E. Schwab. I was very much a Twilight girl and still am — it’s a comfort series. I am also fond of Neil Gaiman’s Coraline. That is an all-time favorite for me.You named the shop after your dog, (Atlas). Is there a story behind your dog's name and the names of the coffee drinks? (The Styx, The Cleo, etc.)
My partner and I are big Greek mythology lovers, and plan to stick with the theme for all of our pups. Atlas was our first pup, followed by Artemis. All of our our signature drinks are named after the team’s pets as well.Did you find it at all intimidating to open a business? And how does it feel now to be seeing people sitting in the shop reading, browsing, talking, etc.?
Oh it was VERY intimidating and still is everyday. I like to tell myself that I am only able to control so much and do one thing at a time, and as a multitasking perfectionist with imposter syndrome2 , that is a multiple times a day thing that I need to do. After opening and seeing people loving and enjoying our space, I feel like I’m living a fever dream most days. I am wildly grateful for our community response.
Now, are you ready for the Official Quad Citizen Quiz?
(Kara’s answers come first, followed by Brooke’s.)
'Official Quad Citizen Quiz': Kara Taghon
In your opinion, how many Quad Cities actually are there?
As a non-native Quad Citizen, I’ve always thought there were technically four: Rock Island, Moline, Davenport and Bettendorf. But folx like to say East Mo is included? I just go with the flow. Haha.
How many of the Quads have you called home?
Just Moline!What are some of the biggest changes you’ve witnessed in the QCA?
Since moving here in 2019, most of the changes I've noticed have been in the downtown Moline area. I’ve seen businesses come and go, murals appear. I’ve watched COVID change the community, and now as a business owner, seeing things bounce back and new places opening up—I am inspired and excited.Since we’ve covered some of the Illinois side (Moline), what do you like best about Bettendorf or Davenport, (or the QC as a whole)? What would you like to see change for the better?
As an Illinois native first experiencing the Iowa side of the QC, I thought it was beautiful and full of incredible things to do. I love the character of Davenport and the accessibility of Bettendorf. I think the two different cities have different things going for them. I enjoy being over there when I have time—specifically for the food. Holy cow, do they have options!Would you now, or have you ever, worn John Deere as a “label”? (and if so what was the item?)
This may be crazy— but I do not own a single piece of John Deere clothing! Not for any particular reason, but I just don’t own anything!How many degrees of separation are you from John Deere (the company, not the man?)
I would say many degrees of separation. Although, I usually take walks through Riverside Cemetery and the one time I visited the Deere family plot, I did trip near Katherine’s grave, so maybe they want me to be closer. Haha.Best bridge: I love the brand new I74 bridge. She's a stunner.
Favorite standing structure in the QC: This is such a difficult question— but I would say the Carnegie Library or the QC Botanical Center. As for a nontraditional structure or collection of structures, Riverside Cemetery is my favorite place in the QC. I love the history.
What’s your favorite meal available in the QC?
Coya’s Cafe holds a permanent place in my heart. I am a simple carne asada taco gal and I’ll never switch it up. They are fast, friendly and beyond delicious.Something you’re willing to cross the bridge for, even though it might take five whole minutes: Incredible food. Blue Spruce, Armored Gardens, Lopiez – the list goes on.
Best live performance or historical moment you’ve witnessed here: I love theater of all kinds. I’m going to stick with my first live performance I saw in the QC which was Rent at the Adler.
Business(es) you’d like to see get a boost from QC consumers: I will never stop talking about Creative Signature Cuisine in Silvis, Rescued (also in Silvis now!!), and Emily Found It over in Le Claire, Iowa – ALWAYS worth the jaunt.
Places (or anything about the QC) that others should know more about, or that you think would surprise someone who’s never visited? We have so many wonderful, eclectic and interesting businesses, neighborhoods and histories to dive into here. Never sleep on a small town(s). The QC is super cool.
We have so many wonderful, eclectic and interesting businesses, neighborhoods and histories to dive into here. Never sleep on a small town(s). The QC is super cool.
'Official Quad Citizen Quiz': Brooke Matheis
In your opinion, how many Quad Cities actually are there?
Four! - Moline, Davenport, Bettendorf, Rock Island
How many of the Quads have you called home? Technically 0 if we're going by my above answer— I've only ever lived in East Moline and Silvis!
What are some of the biggest changes you’ve witnessed in the QCA?
The gradual quieting of Southpark Mall. It was the hangout spot, where I spent my scant high school paychecks.
Since we’ve covered the Illinois side, what do you like best about Bettendorf or Davenport (or the QC as a whole)? What would you like to see change for the better? I love that you get a small town feel and large city amenities all in one. There's never a shortage of things to do — hockey games, shopping, museums, farmers markets and vendor fairs.
Would you now, or have you ever, worn John Deere as a “label”? (and if so what was the item?)
I can't say I have. I'm more of a snarky t-shirt than a Deere logo kind of girl.
How many degrees of separation are you from John Deere (the company, not the man?) My husband has frequently done work for John Deere as an electrician and my dad always used John Deere mowers.
Best bridge: The new 74 bridge
Favorite standing structure in the QC: Does the Quad City Botanical Center count? (Yes!)
What’s your favorite meal available in the QC? I'm a foodie, so this is hard. Gyros from Uncle Pete's, falafel from Olive Tree Cafe, literally anything from Taste of Ethiopia. Anything but QC style pizza.... not my fave!!
Something you’re willing to cross the bridge for, even though it might take five whole minutes: Costco
Best QC rumor/urban legend/ local lore (and whether or not you believe it): I'm a skeptic— so probably absolutely none.
Best live performance or historical moment you’ve witnessed here: John Mulaney at The Adler!
Business(es) you’d like to see get a boost from QC consumers: Taste of Ethiopia!!
Places (or anything about the QC) that others should know more about, or that you think would surprise someone who’s never visited? We have a specific pizza style that stirs up enough debate that it could probably cause local turf wars.
Have you been to The Atlas Collective? Have you, too, longed for a third space? A hangout that is not a bar? A place where reading matters? AND in a downtown space that so deserves some new life and vibrance? Leave me a comment below!
all links that I include to books will go to bookshop.org, which supports indies, including the Atlas Collective
girl me too
Thank you for reading The Inquisitive Quad Citizen, which features stories and questions about Midwestern lives, (including my own). If you enjoyed this post, please share it, subscribe to future posts, (while making sure to check your junk folder), and enjoy having something in your inbox that is NOT a plea for you to come back to Hello Fresh. I hate paywalls as much as the next guy, so I keep my posts free, but would you consider dropping a tip into my PayPal jar or buying me a “coffee”? Subscriptions are FREE, but if you upgrade to a paid version, ($5/month or $50/ year), I will love you more than the Quad Cities loves Kwik Stars!
Iowa Writers’ Collaborative - Check out our roster!
Be sure to check out our Sunday roundup of great writing from across the state. We are a group of journalists, columnists, former or current media professionals, poets, humorists, and more. See a full list of writers below. Pick a few you’d like to support (including me!) by becoming paid. It helps keep us going.
Make sure to read through to the QC Quiz. It’s great idea and I love that Taste of Ethiopia is referenced twice in it!
I’ve been meaning to go there! One of my good friends is enamored with the place! I’m going to make a point to meet with her there very soon!!