Cool Cat: Amy McClelland

story by Litzy Rodriguez

Ellensburg's local, family-owned department store has been around for over 77 years. The store sells books, clothing, gifts, craft supplies, and teaching and office supplies. Amy McClelland is a fourth-generation family member who grew up in a small town called Mulino in Oregon and studied environmental science at Oregon State University. Amy moved to Ellensburg last year to work at Jerrol's and earn her place as the store owner. 

When did you begin working at Jerrol's, and what led you to it?

I started working at Jerrol's on April 10, 2023. I had been managing a bookstore in Flagstaff, AZ, for the last five years when my uncle Rolf, who is the third generation of Jerrol's, called me in 2022 to start a conversation about me coming to work at Jerrol's to learn the business and earn a place as the fourth-generation owner.

What is your role within the bookstore, and what does a general workday look like for you?

Currently, I am the 'Frontline Team Lead' and responsible for our sales/marketing seat. This role means I am primarily working out on the sales floor directly with our customers (my favorite place to be). About 20% of my time is spent in my office working on marketing campaigns, events, community outreach ideas, and anything else I volunteer for. I also send weekly retail emails and write articles for the monthly Jerrol's newsletter. But Rolf and I call my position "4th Generation," and every day, we work together to grow my knowledge of Jerrol's and work toward taking on different responsibilities in the business.

How do you stay updated with the latest book trends?

I read a lot. I usually have three books going at once: one digital, one as an audiobook, and one [physical] book. There are a lot of tools to help me keep track of the latest trends. As a bookseller, I get access to books before they publish, so I know even before they hit our shelf if it is a good read, and one our clients would be interested in. I also look at the Publishers Weekly magazine, listen to NPR, and read the NYT book reviews to inform myself of the latest "buzz" books. But I prefer to read titles that are more under the radar so I can recommend things my clients haven't heard of before.

Are there any books or authors that hold a special significance to you?

Oh my goodness, there are so many books that I have learned from and have shaped my life in some way or another. One of my all-time favorite books is The Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch, which I think every child should read at some point! But as far as books that have helped shape who I am as a future business leader, I have to say How Creativity Rules the World by Maria Brito, Brave Not Perfect by Reshma Saujani, and The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership by Jim Dethmer, Diana Chapman and Kaley Warner Klemp Have been my three pillars.

Have you faced any challenges working in a family-run bookstore, and how have you overcome them?

So far, I have been surprised at how smoothly everything has gone at work! I am still blown away by how many community members truly love Jerrol's and think of it as a community institution. It is such an honor to hear their stories, but it also terrifies me because I don't want to let anyone down!

Can you share any memorable stories or experiences while working at Jerrol's?

The first time I finished one of Rolf's sentences for him was a bit scary for both of us.

How do you believe Jerrol's serves the community of Ellensburg?

The best thing we can offer our community is how they feel after leaving our store. I hope every client feels welcomed, and like Jerrol's is a safe place for them to bring their honest selves to shop and connect.

What are your goals right now, personal or concerning Jerrol's?

Currently, my biggest goal is to soak up any and all knowledge I can gain from my team and community. This business has been here for 76 years, and I have a lot to learn to keep it going for 76 more!

Interview has been edited for clarity and length.