Our History

The story of eQuip Books began in the fall of 2008 when Daniel Rossi-Keen posted a handful of books for sale from his personal library. Much to his surprise, the items sold quickly and for a very nice profit. Only a few short weeks after posting the first round of items for sale, Daniel was already starting to think about how he could start a business selling books. Although a full-time university professor at the time, Daniel devoted himself to learning the basics of online commerce and the various technologies used by this growing industry.

Working out of Daniel’s home, the business grew at a modest pace. During the second year of operations, inventory had grown too large and operations were moved to a dedicated commercial space. With the help of three part-time employees, the business grew quickly. In 2011, Daniel resigned his post at the university and moved to Aliquippa to devote himself full-time to the growth of the business.

Looking forward to the possibility of establishing a business with a conscience on Franklin Avenue, Daniel hired John Jordan, a resident of Aliquippa who had worked with youth and their families for a number of years. Beginning in the fall of 2011, John and Daniel started working to refine and implement a vision for a business in Aliquippa that provides meaningful work for a modest number of local residents.

In the summer of 2013, after a year of building renovations, eQuip Books began operating its online division in downtown Aliquippa. In the spring of 2014, the retail store was first opened to the public with limited hours. In May of 2014, eQuip Books began regular operations, with traditional weekday business hours. By the fall of 2014, eQuip Books intends to be open 6 days a week, with evening and weekend hours.