ROCKLAND, Maine — The Reading Corner, one of the oldest businesses downtown, will close in January, owner Warren Bodine announced Wednesday.
The bookstore has been a fixture on Main Street since 1975. Bodine purchased the independent bookstore in August 1978 and moved the business across the street the next year after he renovated the building at 408 Main St.
Bodine said in a news release that the business flourished and became well known for its creative windows, frequent author signings and other events, as well as its personal service to a wide spectrum of customers.
Bodine attributes much of the success to his staff and the loyalty of his patrons. Business manager Brian Harden was hired in July 1978 and has worked almost every day for more than 35 years. The retail clerks, led by Doris Huber for more than 25 years, developed strong relationships with the public, Bodine said.
Bodine expressed satisfaction with his years in Rockland’s downtown and reluctance about closing his business. Publishing and book selling have undergone huge changes in the past 10 years, he pointed out.
“Many of those changes have worked against the survival of the independent book store and in favor of large chain stores and online shopping,” he said.
He stated firmly that the Reading Corner would not have lasted as long as it has without an unusual amount of loyalty from its local customers and without the viability of Rockland’s downtown shopping district. He said he hopes the community will support and sustain that downtown for many years to come.
As to the future, Bodine said he is open to all options. He has not actively marketed either the building or the business, but would be willing to let the Reading Corner reopen under new ownership and would consider selling the building, comprised of 404 and 408 Main St., under the right circumstances. He said he plans to continue his community service and remain retired from the responsibilities of business ownership.
The Reading Corner will close for regular business on Saturday, Jan. 3, and reopen for a going-out-of-business sale on Monday, Jan. 12. The sale will run through much of January and end by Jan. 31. Gift certificates and credits should be used as soon as possible and will be accepted throughout the sale. Also, staff will order books at regular prices during the sale. For questions, call 596-6651 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.