Laura and Troy Weeks, owners of Lorelei Books in Vicksburg, Miss., have decided to retire and are seeking new owners for their bookstore, which is located on Washington Street downtown. In a letter posted on Facebook recently, Laura wrote: "It's with mixed feelings that I tell you I will retire from bookstore ownership this year. I've owned and operated Lorelei Books for over ten years, building not only a successful business, but a relationship with the community--something I could never recreate or forget."
Noting that "we'd like to see the bookstore carried on" and citing the resurgence of indies nationwide, she added: "Because we own the building, we can offer the new owner a reasonable lease. So, we're open to serious inquiries about buying Lorelei Books. This transition was not based on economics or health. Lorelei Books continues to be a profitable business, downtown Vicksburg is more vibrant than ever, and Troy and I are both well. The bookstore will remain open regular hours; by continuing to shop here you can be a partner to the store's changing hands." If a buyer for the bookstore is not found, the store will close.
Weeks also expressed gratitude to "everyone who has supported my business over the years. You understand that this wasn't just about selling books. Not long ago, I stood outside and watched a homecoming parade roll past the bookstore. In one of the convertibles was a young lady who, as a seven-year-old, told me she wanted to someday work at Lorelei Books. She grew up in the bookstore and did indeed work here. Dreams realized--that's what this has been about, and you have been a part of it."
A Vicksburg Post editorial noted: "Lorelei Books has been an integral part of downtown Vicksburg. The Weekses have been involved in the community and have hosted booksignings and other events which have brought residents and tourists alike into the downtown area.... If you’ve ever thought about owning your own business, maybe now is the time. Perhaps it’s you who needs to seize the day."