One of Franklin’s must-visit attractions is Landmark Booksellers. After visiting the shop in 2012, Franklin resident Karen Kingsbury was inspired to write her New York Times bestselling book, “The Bridge,” a heartwarming, inspirational story based on the bookstore and the husband and wife who own it. Joel and Carol Tomlin have deep roots in Franklin and Williamson County that date back to 1802, and their shared interest in books and reading led to the creation of this book lover’s paradise.
Joel and Carol got married 25 years ago and combined their families, promising each other they would find a vocation they both could enjoy together once the youngest child graduated from school. That promise led to the opening of Landmark Booksellers in July 2005. Today, the couple considers themselves blessed to be able to share their love of books with each other and their customers every day at Landmark Booksellers, which they deem the most wonderful place in the world.