Business Details
27 Years
experience
Your Destination for Art & Books in Fayetteville
Founded in 1999, City Center Gallery & Books has been a cornerstone of Fayetteville's cultural landscape for over two decades. Our dual focus on art and literature offers a unique experience where visitors can explore thousands of used books alongside original works by local artists. We specialize in connecting patrons with rare and out-of-print titles through our nationwide network of used book sources. Our gallery exclusively represents the late Bob Rector's automotive and aviation art, complemented by contemporary works from Fayetteville-based artists. Through regular book signings, author meet-and-greets, and participation in downtown events like 4th Fridays and the Dogwood Festival, we foster community engagement with the arts. Our knowledgeable staff combines decades of local expertise to help customers discover hidden literary gems and meaningful art pieces.We take pride in maintaining the historic integrity of our 1890s building while providing modern access to cultural resources. Our book clubs and corporate art services extend our mission of making art and literature accessible to all. With transparent pricing and personalized service, we ensure every visitor finds value in our curated collections. Our commitment to Fayetteville's heritage is reflected in our extensive selection of local history books and regional art. Through consistent community involvement and adaptive curation, we continue to serve as Fayetteville's premier destination for art and literary enthusiasts.
Services
Art Gallery
Bookstore
Book Clubs
Corporate Art
Book Signings
Used Book Sales
Greeting Cards
Postcards & Prints
Event Hosting
Local Author Promotions
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- We are Fayetteville's only downtown bookstore with nationwide book sourcing capabilities
- We exclusively represent the late Bob Rector's original automotive and aviation art
- Our staff has over 60 years combined local experience in art and literature
- We host monthly book clubs and regular author events in our historic building
- We provide corporate art installation services for regional businesses and hospitals
Services
Art Gallery
Showcasing original works by local artists including the exclusive collection of late automotive artist Bob Rector. Features rotating exhibits of paintings, photographs, and postcards depicting Fayetteville's heritage. Offers limited edition giclees and prints of historic downtown scenes.
Bookstore
Specializing in quality used hardbacks and paperbacks with extensive sections in classics, military history, and local interest. Maintains North Carolina's largest collection of Lafayette-related books and hosts regular book signing events with regional authors.
Corporate Art
Providing curated art solutions for businesses and healthcare facilities throughout the Cape Fear region. Offers consultation services for space evaluation and theme development with a focus on local artists and budget-conscious options.
Book Clubs
Hosting monthly book clubs including The Directions Book Club and The Other Book Club. Provides curated reading lists and dedicated meeting spaces for literary discussions. Offers special themed selections during seasonal events like A Dickens Holiday.
Event Hosting
Organizing regular cultural events including 4th Friday art walks, author meet-and-greets, and seasonal festivals. Maintains partnerships with local arts organizations to promote Fayetteville's creative community through exhibitions and performances.
People
Diane Parfitt
Owner
Co-founder with 24 years of experience curating Fayetteville's cultural scene. Specializes in connecting patrons with local art and literature while preserving downtown's historic character.
Hank
Co-Owner
Business partner with Diane since 1999. Focuses on art curation and community engagement. Known for his personal connection to local artists and automotive art collection.
Laura Laycock
Store Manager
Fayetteville native with 10 years managing daily operations. Expert in local history and literature, specializing in customer service and event coordination for cultural programs.
Liz Testa-Vasser
Community Liaison
Cultural ambassador with extensive local theater and arts council experience. Coordinates author events and promotes community engagement through Fayetteville's creative networks.
Matt Parfitt
Book Specialist
Diane's son who manages book acquisitions. Scours regional sales for rare titles and assists customers in finding specialized literature for both personal and academic collections.
Questions
What are your current operating hours?
We're open Monday-Thursday 10-6, Friday & Saturday 10-8, and Sunday 1-6.
Do you carry new books or only used books?
We offer both new books by local authors and thousands of used titles across all genres.
Can you help find rare or out-of-print books?
Yes, our staff specializes in locating hard-to-find books through our nationwide network.
Do you host author events or book signings?
We regularly host book signings and author meet-and-greets throughout the year.
Are there art classes or workshops available?
While we don't offer classes, we feature rotating art exhibits and artist meet-and-greets.
Do you offer corporate art consultation services?
Yes, we provide art installation services for businesses and healthcare facilities regionally.
