Wanted: Kind Humans
At Tomes & Tonics, we believe everyone deserves a place where they can truly be themselves.
Whether your style is elegant, gothic, whimsical, nerdy, vintage, cottagecore, cosplay, or something uniquely your own—we celebrate individuality. We want our team and our guests to feel comfortable showing up exactly as they are.
If wearing elf ears makes your day better, wear the elf ears. If you love dressing up for spooky season, literary holidays, or themed events, we'll probably be right there with you. We believe authenticity creates connection, and connection builds community.
Our goal is to create a space where people can relax, feel accepted, discover new stories, and maybe even find "their people."
Kindness, inclusivity, and respect are non-negotiable. Beyond that? Be delightfully, unapologetically yourself.
Does this sound like a good fit? Review the openings below, then fill out the form to submit your application. We’ll reach out for interviews within 7 to 10 days!
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The Bartender/Booktender is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the bar as well as assisting on the retail side. This role works alongside the owners to ensure exceptional customer service, efficient operations, and a welcoming atmosphere while maintaining compliance with all alcohol service regulations.
Pay & Benefits
$20/hr
Guaranteed 40 hours/week
5 paid days off/year
Employee discount + 1 free book or apparel item quarterly
Responsibilities
Operations
● Assist with opening and closing procedures
● Help train and mentor new employees
● Maintain a clean, organized, inviting store
● Help monitor inventory and communicate restocking needs
● Help execute store events, author signings, book clubs, and themed nights
Bar & Coffee Service
● Prepare and serve cocktails, mocktails, beer, wine, coffee, espresso drinks, and other beverages
● Maintain bar cleanliness and sanitation
● Verify IDs and ensure responsible alcohol service
● Follow recipes and presentation standards
● Monitor product quality and freshness
Bookstore & Retail
● Assist customers with book recommendations and merchandise
● Operate the POS system
● Help receive inventory and stock shelves
● Assist with merchandise displays and seasonal features
● Process purchases and returns
Customer Experience
● Create a welcoming, inclusive environment
● Build relationships with regular guests
● Resolve customer concerns professionally
● Represent Tomes & Tonics with enthusiasm and positivity
Qualifications
Required:
● Must be 21+
● Previous bartending experience
● Strong customer service experience
● Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
● Excellent communication skills
● Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.
● Evening and weekend availability
Preferred:
● Coffee or espresso experience
● Passion for books and reading
● Missouri alcohol server certification (or ability to obtain)
What We're Looking For
We're looking for people who genuinely enjoy making others feel welcome. Experience is important, but attitude matters even more.
Our ideal teammate is:
● Kind and welcoming to everyone
● Reliable and accountable
● Curious and eager to learn
● Comfortable taking initiative
● Passionate about books, hospitality, or both
● Excited to help build a one-of-a-kind community space
● Unafraid to let their personality shine
We believe our differences make us stronger. Whether you're a fantasy fanatic, horror enthusiast, romance reader, D&D player, Swiftie, gamer, artist, coffee nerd, cocktail connoisseur, or proudly impossible to categorize—we want the people who work here to feel just as comfortable being themselves as the guests who walk through our doors.
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The Booktender/Barista is responsible for providing excellent customer service while assisting with bookstore operations and preparing coffee, tea, and non-alcoholic beverages. This position also supports bar operations as needed and helps maintain the inviting atmosphere that makes Tomes & Tonics special.
Pay & Benefits
$18/hr
Guaranteed 20 hours/week, potential for more hours
Employee discount + 1 free book or apparel item quarterly
Responsibilities
Customer Service
● Welcome every guest with a friendly attitude
● Help customers find books and merchandise
● Recommend books and gift items
● Process purchases accurately
● Maintain a clean and inviting sales floor
Coffee & Beverage Service
● Prepare coffee, espresso, tea, and specialty drinks
● Assist bartenders during busy periods
● Maintain beverage stations
● Follow recipes and food safety standards
Retail Operations
● Stock books and merchandise
● Organize displays
● Receive inventory
● Assist with store opening and closing duties
● Keep shelves neat and organized
Community Engagement
● Assist with book clubs and events
● Help create a welcoming atmosphere
● Support local authors and makers through merchandising and events
Qualifications
Required:
● Must be 18+
● Excellent customer service skills
● Reliable transportation
● Ability to work evenings and weekends
● Ability to stand for extended periods
● Ability to lift up to 30 lbs.
Preferred:
● Retail experience
● Coffee shop or café experience
● Knowledge of books and genres
● Basic bartending knowledge (not required—we'll train if 21+)
● Friendly, outgoing personality
What We're Looking For
We're looking for people who genuinely enjoy making others feel welcome. Experience is important, but attitude matters even more.
Our ideal teammate is:
● Kind and welcoming to everyone
● Reliable and accountable
● Curious and eager to learn
● Comfortable taking initiative
● Passionate about books, hospitality, or both
● Excited to help build a one-of-a-kind community space
● Unafraid to let their personality shine
We believe our differences make us stronger. Whether you're a fantasy fanatic, horror enthusiast, romance reader, D&D player, Swiftie, gamer, artist, coffee nerd, cocktail connoisseur, or proudly impossible to categorize—we want the people who work here to feel just as comfortable being themselves as the guests who walk through our doors.