The preference of a customer being able to touch an item before they purchase it is what started the newest book store in Picayune, Foundation Christian Books and Gifts.

Established by sisters Angela Hunt and Tammy Reaves, Hunt said the idea to open the business came to her after she was dissatisfied with a previous Bible purchase from an online retailer. She was looking for a copy of the book for her grandson, who prefers a larger font size. But what she got in the mail was not what she thought she ordered.

So, on June 16, of this year, the sisters teamed up and opened their business at 216 East Canal Street in Picayune.

With such a prime location in downtown, Hunt said a number of her customers so far have discovered her business while walking or jogging on the sidewalk.

First and foremost, their business offers Bibles, which Hunt said makes up 85 percent of sales. But there are several other items customers can find on the shelves. Some of the other items offered include Christian inspired baseball caps, jewelry, greeting cards and covers for Bibles. The business also carries highlighters and pens specially formulated for highlighting or marking in Bibles.

A couple of unique items are also offered, such as journals and envelope books handmade by Hunt’s husband. Envelope books can come in handy for setting aside money to pay certain bills or for saving up for a special trip, Reaves said.

As the business grows, the sisters hope to be able to offer a book exchange program and serve as a venue for prayer meetings and Bible study classes. Hunt said she would also like to offer craft building events for children.

Hunt said her husband is practicing his book repair skills in the hopes of one day being able to repair Bibles.

If there is a specific Christian themed item the business does not carry, Hunt and Reaves say they will find and order it.

The business is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and closed on Sunday. Staff can be reached by calling 769-242-2621.