Our story

Spring of 2014

When Changing Hands Bookstore opened its Phoenix location in May of 2014, it brought with it a new spot to relax, grab a pint, and gather with fellow book lovers. Since then, First Draft Book Bar has expanded its offerings to include more than 40 craft beers, 20 wines, local mead, and a full range of coffee drinks and food.

Spring of 2020

In March of 2020, Changing Hands Bookstore and First Draft Book Bar temporarily closed to the public for the first time. Through incredible local support, both Changing Hands and First Draft withstood the COVID-19 pandemic, finding creative ways to serve the community even as our doors remained closed. Changing Hands would later reopen for socially-distanced shopping, and First Draft reopened for dine-in in the late summer.

Present Day

First Draft Book Bar continues to serve the community with curbside pickup, take-out, and dine-in! Check out our homepage for current hours of operation. We have partnered with Phoenix College and The Virginia G. Piper Center at ASU for our monthly writing workshop series, Write Here Write Now. USA Today Books Editor Barbara VanDenburgh also continues to host our popular First Draft Book Club every month.

Interested in booking an event? Please email The Newton Events Coordinator at events@thenewtonphx.com