Bookstore Staff

We have a great team heading up the effort, but that’s only the beginning. Hundreds of people have been involved in building the co-op, and you could be one of them! To make a community-owned store a reality, use the “Get Involved” menu to become a member/owner, a volunteer, or an employee.

Gustavo Belotta, General Manager

Gustavo has worked in the retail book market for over 20 years and has read a few here and there in that time. He will occasionally do some writing, acting, painting, or anything else creative that takes his fancy. He can be found playing board games or trying to convince people to play board games the rest of the time.

Katie Elam, Bookseller

Katie is our newest employee, coming to us with a wealth of knowledge about community outreach. She is passionate about books and education and recommends Nimona and the books of Travis Baldree. Although she is not originally from Montana, she fits right in!

Shirley Marin, Bookseller

Shirley is a Southern California transplant who loves dark fantasy, thought-provoking literary fiction, and anything a little quirky. As a mom, she has LOTS of recommendations for young readers, and she spearheads our periodic bilingual (Spanish/English) storytime.

Lydia Parkins, Bookseller

Lydia is a senior at Senior High School and one of the most accomplished young sopranos in Billings. When she isn't at school or the bookstore, you can find her singing with the Billings Symphony or teaching the freshman choir students.

Staff Picks