Book Stall owner decides to close shop

Aiken's downtown independent bookstore will close its doors for good at the end of the year, according to owner Ann Carlson.

The Book Stall will have a sale on all inventory and store fixtures from Monday, Dec. 28 to Thursday, Dec. 31, which will be the store's last day open to the public.

Carlson cited personal reasons for closing the Hayne Avenue shop, which has been open for three years. A resident of Georgetown, Carlson has been the owner of Harbor Walk Books there for more than a decade.

"I really am downhearted that I had to make this choice," she said. "It's with deep regret that I feel this step is necessary, and many thanks to all the delightful people I've met in Aiken. I'll miss them all, especially my wonderful staff, Meg and Susan."

Said staff member Meg Ferguson, "We've loved every minute of the last three years. This has been a dream come true for me; it's been so much fun, truly, it's been a blast. It's been wonderful to be part of the Aiken business community, which is very welcoming."

Staff member Susan Scherphorn had praise for The Book Stall's clientele.

"I have to express my deep gratitude to our customers for their unsurpassed loyalty. Many of them have become good friends to Meg and me," she said. "Between our in-store book groups, author signings and seminars, we've met a lovely segment of our community we might not have met otherwise."

Carlson extended thanks to her fellow downtown small-business owners and stressed the importance of shopping locally in Aiken.

For more information about the shop's closing, call The Book Stall at 644-0604 or visit the store at 413 Hayne Ave.

Contact Suzanne Stone at sstone@aikenstandard.com.