SPOTLIGHT continued from previous page...
Beyond the Bank – Matthew Lynch The Banker Behind the Bookstore How would you describe your bookstore to someone who hasn’t visited yet?
My bookstore is a “we have something for everyone”. When opening the space, it was also created for local artists to house their items. You will find candles, clothing, soaps, and wooden decorative signs from local crafters.
What have been some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned as a small business owner?
Time is limited so use it wisely. It takes a lot to run a business, and you must manage your time wisely or it will get away from you.
What similarities do you see between running a bookstore and your work as a banker?
There are a lot of financials involved in a running a business. Being a banker helped with that aspect because I was able to take what I knew from my banking career and apply it.
What’s one book you’d recommend to fellow community bankers?
I read all genres, so I say pick something that you love and just read. Right now, Quicksilver and its sequel Brimstone are at the forefront of my mind because I just read Brimstone. Ask me in a week and it will be something new. I read 58 books (which is quite a small number compared to others) in 2025, so my recommendations always change.
S p ri n g 2 02 6 | G e o r g i a C o mmu n ities Fir s t | 38