Libby Dollar Store gets off to fast start in its first week

When partners Michelle Swagger and Carl Pulver worked on the business plan for the new Dollar Store in Libby, they anticipated it would be two weeks before they placed their first order to restock shelves. 

On Tuesday, just four days after their opening Saturday, June 15, Swagger was already on the phone.

“It’s just been terrific, the response from the community,” Swagger said. “People are telling us this is just what Libby needed.”

With experience in the retail business, Swagger said she is bringing that customer service to Libby.

“People want great customer service, and that’s what we can provide,” Swagger said. “Nowadays, people are looking for value for that $20 bill. They’re trying to stretch it. We can help them get the most for that $20.”

Swagger and Pulver lived near each other, and it was that neighborly friendship that prompted the idea for their Dollar Store.

“We were just talking about doing something like this,” Pulver said. “I was a truck driver for years, and I was looking to get off the road. This is great.”

The Dollar Store is located at 315 Mineral Ave., which is the old Cabinet Books retail outlet. The spacious store is packed with a variety of kitchen utensils, cleaning supplies, housewares, hygiene items, toys and even party supplies.

“We’ve got a good selection of items,” Swagger said. “They are quality, low-cost items. Things everyone needs.”

The Dollar Store is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. It is closed on Monday.

Swagger attended last week’s Chamber of Commerce meeting, joining the group. Living in Libby for seven years, she has been a Girl Scout leader and is a bow-hunting instructor and an auxiliary member of the American Legion. Pulver also is a member of the American Legion.