“I want this to be a community hub—a place that’s warm and welcoming,” says Christina Benton, a forensic anthropologist-turned-crime author … and now bookstore owner. Last week, Benton opened Janco Books at 2202 W. Charleston Boulevard. The store offers a curated selection of new and used books with emphases on crime thrillers, local and black authors and home-schooling.

“We know that books are supposedly obsolete, but we know that Vegas has a reading culture,” says Benton, who plans to boost that culture with book signings, readings and community events. There’s also a consignment program for self-published authors. Coffee, popcorn, board games and free wifi complete the welcoming feel. For more info, visit jancobookstore.com.