By SANDRA THAMES / Community Columnist

Husband and wife team Todd and Karen Williams of Alabaster recently opened “The Keep” at 8919 Alabama 119 S. Suite 104. Having come to our city originally from the Florence area, the couple has been married for seven years and lived here for 10.

The idea for this particular type store came about as Todd was selling rare and retro video games while Karen sold vintage clothing and accessories online. The decision to go with a permanent location together was a no-brainer.

Store hours are Wednesday through Saturday from noon until 9 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 8 p.m. The owners buy and trade video games, trading cards, specialty novelties and other rare or geeky items which they feel fit the theme of the store. “The Keep” is a reference to a common theme in video games, comic books, fantasy novels and tabletop RPGs.

“We want to provide a place for Alabaster geeks and gamers to socialize, play and feel welcome” said Karen Williams who is currently pursuing a master’s degree in business. “We invite you to play board games, video games or just hang out. If you are bringing a larger group, please notify us ahead of time to make sure we can accommodate.”

On Wednesday, the Birmingham Board Meetup Group is from 6-10 p.m. Craft night is also 6-10 p.m. and a great way for geeks to unite and craft, they said. On Friday nights, Magic the Gathering tournaments are from 7 p.m. until midnight, and also Dungeons and Dragons. Saturday from 5 p.m. until midnight is Magic the Gathering and Pathfinder Society.

A variety of many items such as books, comics, games, anime, accessories and records may be sold, bought or traded. Their website is Thekeepshop.com.

Loving the Japanese culture as they do, the Williams dream of a visit to Japan someday.