James & John Hoffsis – Owners of Treasure House Books & Gifts

James & John Hoffsis Provide Opportunities for Local Authors to Discuss Their History Writings

John Hoffsis, the owner of Treasure House Books & Gifts located adjacent to Albuquerque’s Old Town plaza, together with the store’s original owner, his father James Hoffsis, have offered encouragement and opportunities for local history authors. Originally opened as a gift shop in 1974, the store was recently honored as one of the best independent bookstores in the world by Atlas Obscura (Albuquerque Journal, May 21, 2018). For local history authors it has become the place to showcase their latest research by sponsoring book signings almost every Saturday or Sunday afternoon. During these events, the public is invited to meet these authors, learn of their new books, and discuss their research on Albuquerque or New Mexico history. Many well-known regional historians have participated in these book signings, including Loretta Hall, Richard Melzer, Don Bullis, Dick Brown, BG Burr, David Holtby, and John Taylor, just to name a few.

In recommending Treasure House Books to Atlas Obscura customer Robin Gomez remarked:

“Treasure House Books & Gifts is a distinctive book shop in the center of Albuquerque’s Old Town Plaza. Under carpet now, its original wood floors, now creak and groan with the movement of customers. Large glass windows set in thick adobe walls face the gazebo across the way in the Plaza’s square . . .”

James Hoffsis is not just a lover of Albuquerque history books, but has also been involved with local historic preservation issues the past 30 years, having at one time served on the city’s Landmarks and Urban Conservation Commission. He has been an active participant in preserving Albuquerque’s unique culture and historic built environment, especially in Old Town.

View other Albuquerque History Accolades.