Todd Lawton and Jeff LeBlanc are hoping to make reading chic. 

The two cofounded Out of Print, a company that designs and sells t-shirts, accessories and stationery featuring classic book covers, in January, 2010.  Since, they’ve grown their business to include a successful website, blog, upcoming kids’ line and an office of ten employees in Brooklyn, New York.  

Lawton and LeBlanc, who were encouraged to read as children (Lawton’s grandmother was a librarian), became nostalgic and concerned about the changing nature of reading when they turned thirty-three.  As eReaders became more prevalent, the pair set out to create a community of book lovers.   After having numerous conversations about reading, they kept coming back to the idea of a graphic t-shirt, and with what they call having “a decent business background,” Out of Print was created. 

“Honestly, when we started we just wanted to create a reading brand that people would like.  Since launching, the customer reaction has been way more than we could have ever hoped for.”  The continuous positive reception from customers reinforces Lawton and LeBlanc’s desire to promote great literature and celebrate reading.  “We want to be known for making being bookish a fashion statement,” they say.

Their enthusiasm has resulted in numerous partnerships within the book trade industry.  They work with artists and publishers to license the content for their products, which has allowed Lawton and LeBlanc to acknowledge how many people and stories go into the creation of one literary work.  They are particularly fond of highlighting the work of artists and celebrating the people who help to publish books and make the idea a reality.  “When you read a book you don’t often think about the people who are behind things as important as the cover art, but their impact has been huge and it’s an inspiration to hear their stories.  It’s very satisfying to feel like in a small way we are bringing attention to their work.” 

They’ve also been able to form a partnership with Books for Africa and have helped to donate 220,000 books to developing countries.  “We always wanted to use our company as a way to do good for people and communities who need the help.  When we heard about the tremendous things that BFA does, we wanted to be part of it.”

While they’ve accomplished much more than their original goal of creating a literary community and making reading a fashion statement, the pair continue to work on growing their consumer base and getting younger kids excited to read.  “Our kids’ line is just starting to take off, so we are excited to continue to help hook more kids on good books at early ages. 

In addition to perusing their collection of tees and accessories available through their online shop, you can check out their favorite books and literary tidbits on their blog, run by their social media expert, Chuck.   “A big part of this is how we communicate with our book friends online.  We have approximately 10 people working to make reading cool.”