Bookshop to close doors
THE Blessington Bookstore has announced that it will close its doors for the last time at the end of the month.
The popular independent bookstore and coffee shop has been shut for two months and shared the sad news on social media on Friday.
Speaking to this paper, Janet Hawkins said she made the decision to close because of the likely long-term effects of Covid-19 on the book business.
‘What people do is they come to browse books and to meet friends for coffee, but that isn’t going to be possible like it has been for a year or two. It’s not possible for me to continue to pay rent, rates and overheads for a physical presence that can’t be used.’
While larger chain book stores are exploring ways to disinfect books handled by browsing shoppers, Ms Hawkins said these measures may not be viable for small independent bookshops like the Blessington Bookstore.
Ms Hawkins added the decision to close was not financially motivated and all those who had bought vouchers or paid into the school saving scheme would be looked after as the business is wound down.
‘Once you accept the reality of living with Covid for one to two years, there is no other decision. When I think of the level of overheads, it’s not feasible.’
The Blessington Bookstore was one of three Irish book shops nominated for a prestigious award at the British Book
Awards. The store continues to sell takeaway coffees from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and to process outstanding online book orders.
She said she has received many wonderful messages from book lovers in the west Wicklow area.
‘I want to express my genuine gratitude for all the messages of support. Everyone will be looked after. Even if they find a voucher down the back of a drawer next year, if they contact me I will honour it with a National Book Voucher. If there is a possibility of a community bookstore in Blessington in the future, then I will be happy to share my knowledge.’