Around Indies

Bethany Beach Provides Books for U.S. Troops

Delaware’s Bethany Beach Books had announced on January 2 that it would accept gently used books for men and women serving overseas. After a successful month of shipping more than 500 books, the bookstore has decided to continue the campaign, reported the Cape Gazette.

The idea originated from a customer whose son is serving in the Navy. The customer told store staff that books are scarce overseas. Bethany Beach Books has since partnered with Operation Paperback, a nonprofit that collects gently used books and sends them overseas and to military families at home.

Bethany Beach Books is accepting gently used books, as well as money donations for shipping costs. The bookstore asks that the donor write a short note in each book.

New Owner for Bank Street Book Nook

Owner Janet Olsen Ryan has found a buyer for New Milford, Connecticut’s Bank Street Book Nook. Olsen Ryan had announced that if she couldn’t find a buyer for the store, it would close, reported the News-Times.

The new owner, Vanessa Gronbach, is a New Milford mother and attorney. Gronbach will be retaining most of the store’s staff and will revive a children’s storytime. She plans to close the store February 16 to reorganize and will host a grand opening on February 22.

Missouri Bookstore Finds Buyers

Main Street Books in St. Charles, Missouri, which was expected to close this month, has found new owners. Current owners Vicki and Jim Erwin told STL Today that Emily, Ellen, and Andrew Hall will buy the store on February 14. Emily Hall, 24, a graduate of Truman State University who majored in English, will oversee the day-to-day operations of Main Street Books.

“I am thrilled that the bookstore sold and I think the Halls will do a great job,” said Vicki Irwin. “They have been customers of the store and are very ‘booky.’ The transition into retirement will be much easier for me knowing that the store will continue in good hands.”

The store will be closed February 9 – 11, and regular hours will resume February 15.