College of Liberal Arts

New owners of Grass Roots Books have strong OSU ties

By Theresa Hogue on March 10, 2026

For 55 years, Grass Roots Books has been providing the Corvallis and Oregon State University community with a carefully-curated selection of books, emphasizing local authors and hosting events both in-store and on the OSU campus with area writers.

Originally opened by Jack Wolcott and Sandy Smith, the store has recently changed ownership to three store employees, two of whom have strong OSU connections, and all of whom share a deep love of highlighting OSU authors and hosting community events.