The following letter is from Karin Anna, owner of the Looking Glass Bookstore on SE 13th and Nehalem. It’s pretty self-explanatory, and although it’s sad for all us neighbors it could be an opportunity for you.
Friends, loyal patrons, and booklovers,
After much deliberation, I have decided to sell the beloved Looking Glass Bookstore. It has been a wonderful almost 10 years as bookseller/owner of this exceptional store, which is over 35 years old (its first 30 years in downtown Portland, and moving to Sellwood in 2007).
As you know, the store quickly became a neighborhood gathering space, for adults and children.
The past few decades, have been presented many challenges for the future of the independent bookstore. Indeed, the list of small independents that have shut their doors for good is long and depressing. While it is clear that the book business is changing, I believe strongly that people want- and are willing to pay for- quality writing and invest in their personal library.
With that in mind, I am hopeful that the bookstore will find a buyer and continue to serve Sellwood’s loyal readers. The right person would need to have a love of reading, but also be technologically savvy. Please pass on the word to anyone who may be interested in becoming the new owner of this special place.
Thank you so much for your loyaltyand support over the years. This has been an extremely difficult decision for me, and I hope to find a buyer so this wonderful place can continue.
If no buyer comes forward, we will close in March.
Karin Anna
If you’re interested, you can reach Karin at the Looking Glass Bookstore, 7983 Southeast 13th Avenue, Portland, OR 97202, (503) 227-4760.
