David Didriksen's Willow Books Closing in Mass.

After 20 years in business, Willow Books, Acton, Mass., is closing because owner David Didriksen has decided to retire, according to wickedlocal.com. Didriksen had put the store up for sale in 2014 but was unable to find a buyer.

Asked about owning the store, Didriksen said, "It was a great experience, it was wonderful, I wouldn't trade it for anything. I was very fortunate. I got tremendous support from the community, really from day one. I had a very supportive landlord. I've had great staff. There have been hundreds of people who've worked here over the years and they've almost all been terrific, wonderful people. And I got to own my own business. I worked for other people for 20 years and I'd rather work for myself than for other people. It's had its challenges, but it's been great....

"My family was involved early on when we opened, so there are a lot of memories here. So I'd rather go out while I can do stuff and not have them carry me out of here."

Didriksen plans to devote "more time to playing in his musical bands, consulting with other small businesses, kayaking on the Concord River and traveling with his wife, Susan," wickedlocal.com wrote. He plans to continue to be a member of Acton's Economic Development Committee and on the board of directors for the Retail Association of Massachusetts.

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