On Hastings Street in Burnaby sits the small-but-mighty independent bookstore, Browns Book Shop.
The business has been a local gem for bibliophiles for nearly half a century, but come Sunday, April 30, the books and the tall shelves boasting big names in the literary world will go, and the banner that reads “Browns Book Shop” will come down.
After almost five decades and two ownerships, the shop is closing down. Owner Roger Brown, who purchased the bookstore in 1999, is stepping down to retire.
In a conversation with the NOW, Brown said the decision to close the doors to this beloved independent bookstore came after careful consideration of his health. “Quality of life is more important,” he said. “ I’m ready to retire now and take care of those health issues — going forward without having to worry about keeping the store open, making sure enough money was coming … it’s just the right time.”
Reflecting on his journey as bookstore owner, he said he did everything he could to keep it alive.
Interacting with customers, building and developing relationships over the years and helping them find new authors and books has been the best part of owning the bookstore, he said.
“The bookstore is a destination place for people to come, seek solace from the outside world and buy some of their favourite things. And book lovers are a very gracious group of people. That’s been the best.”
As part of the closing, Brown’s Books is selling bags of books for just $10 — mystery, thrillers, romance, non-fiction, you name it.
