Rakestraw Books
Michael Barnard is the owner of Rakestraw Books. Founded in 1973, Rakestraw Books is a small, independent bookshop that remains dedicated to the principles espoused by its founders: to sell a variety of books of merit; to help readers discover those books; to sponsor events that bring a diverse range of writers and artists to our community; and to accomplish these tasks in a manner that is both professional and friendly.
Rakestraw has won awards statewide, regionally, and locally, including in part: Danville Area Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year; Business of the Year for the 16th Assembly District; The Debi Echlin Award for Community Bookselling; and Best Bookstore for both Diablo magazine and Danville Express.
Bachelor's degree from UC Davis and Masters degree from Northwestern University. He has owned Rakestraw Books since 1995.