Old Town bookstore Hooray for Books!, a beloved local spot for children’s books and author signings, announced that it will close for good at the end of this year.
In a message on the bookstore’s website, staff said the shop is fully stocked for the holidays but the store will remain closed in 2025 because the landlord is not extending the bookstore’s lease.
“We will remain closed in 2025, because our landlord is not extending the bookstore’s lease,” the bookstore said. “They have plans to remodel the space for their own use. Hooray for Books! will not be sold or relocating – it’s time to conclude our story.”
The bookstore has more than 14,000 books stocked for the holidays, along with games, puzzles, toys and more. The company said that throughout the month they will have sales, giveaways, raffles and more as a thank-you to locals who supported the shop over the years. The store will also offer free gift wrapping and share the cost of mailing.
“We’re thankful for the support and love we’ve received from loyal customers and bookish friends during our nearly 17 years in business,” the bookstore said. “You’ve helped us survive the Great Recession, multiple flash floods, and the COVID Pandemic. Endings are hard to write, but now’s the time to do just that.”
The notice said to keep the following dates in mind for the store:
Dec 9 – last day to purchase gift certificates
Dec 11 – last day to order books that you will be mailing
Dec 13 – last day to order books that you will be giving in person
Dec 24 – time is ticking for last-minute shopping! Store hours are 10 AM to 6 PM
Dec 25 – closed for the holidays
Dec 31 – last day for shopping and picking up special orders; using gift certificates, store credits, and Bookstore Booster Club rewards; returning and exchanging merchandise
Jan 1 – closed for New Year’s Day
