Yep, you read that correctly. The Gables-based branch of Books and Books is about to enter a world we thought gone with, well, the printing press. Yes, we mean vinyl. As in records, dig? And no, you haven't lost your mind. 
And neither have they. It's all part of a series of listening evenings the book boutique is launching in cahoots with local audio/video specialists Sound Performance. The first gathering will be this Thursday and will revolve around Tom Moon's encyclopedic -- and perfectly a propos -- 1,000 Recordings to Hear Before You Die (Workman $19.95).
If you know Moon's work either at The Herald (where he began), The Philadelphia Inquirer (where he spent nearly two decades) or NPR (where he continues to file), then you know the cat's got an uncommon grasp of musical history. And he'll be on hand to waltz everyone through some of its most important moments.
And while the vinyl might not be ready this week, Books and Books chief Mitchell Kaplan says that it soon shall indeed be sold. Eventually they'll also be installing listening stations throughout the store, and putting a name to the series, which is already stirring considerable interest from aficionados.
Granted, Books and Books might not be the first place that springs to mind when you're thinking about music. But remember, there's been live jazz in the courtyard since the joint opened. And more than a few Pazz & Jop writers have chosen the place to chat about their books.
So head on over this Thursday and listen in to something learned and lively. Who knows? You might also wanna break out the ol' Victrola once you hear what Books and Books has in store.
Tom Moon samples and discusses his 1,000 Recordings to Hear Before You Die Thursday, April 9, at Books and Books, 265 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables. The reading starts at 8 p.m. and admission is free. 305-442-4408; booksandbooks.com
