Deseret Book

Amidst the bustling energy of Salt Lake City, find a sanctuary of literary treasures and spiritual inspiration at Deseret Book. Ever wonder how a humble bookstore grew into a cultural icon? Deseret Book’s story began in 1866, not as Deseret Book, but as George Q. Cannon & Sons. George Q. Cannon, a prominent figure in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, launched the Juvenile Instructor magazine. He saw a need for uplifting literature that aligned with the values of his faith. His bookstore became a haven for such works, a stark contrast to the secular novels he believed did not reflect Latter-day Saint principles. Deseret Book’s roots intertwine with the Deseret News, the Church-owned newspaper. Cannon’s sons played key roles at the newspaper, strengthening the connection between the two entities. The Deseret News press even printed nearly all of George Q. Cannon & Sons’ publications. The bookstore’s journey took a significant turn in 1919. It merged with the Deseret Sunday School Union Bookstore, giving birth to the Deseret Book Company we know today. The combined entity continued to flourish, eventually becoming a subsidiary of Deseret Management Corporation, the holding company for Church-owned businesses. Deseret Book’s influence expanded beyond books. In the 1940s, the company ventured into motion pictures, supplying film projectors and even establishing Deseret Film Productions. This foray into film resulted in the creation of “Where the Saints have Trod,” a cinematic tribute to the Mormon pioneers’ arrival in the Salt Lake Valley. Deseret Book’s reach extends far beyond the printed page. It’s a purveyor of music, art, and home décor, catering to a diverse audience seeking inspiration and connection. The company’s imprints, including Shadow Mountain and Ensign Peak, publish works ranging from doctrinal texts to fiction and values-based literature for a national audience. From a single bookstore to a multimedia empire, Deseret Book continues to evolve. It stands as a testament to the power of faith, community, and the enduring appeal of stories that uplift and inspire.