The Strand, on Union Square in Manhattan, is known for many things, including its book selection. But its consistent place in the world of tote bags might be equally famous – and now it has offered more than 100 designs. Why? “Books and tote bags go together naturally — one is an object to be carried, the other carries it. So it makes sense that Strand customers would gravitate toward the bookstore’s bags. The appeal of a tote, however, goes beyond mere utility.”