The New England Mobile Book Fair, which announced in March that it would have to move when its lease expired at the end of the month, has found a new home on Needham Street in the N² Innovation District of Newton, Mass. Northland Investment Corporation, a national real estate investment company with headquarters in Newton, has agreed to host the indie bookstore. Work has begun to get the space ready for the store, with the opening targeted for mid-June.
"We had been contacted by a number of cities and locations nearby but ultimately felt that we wanted to try to stay local," said NEMBF owner Tom Lyons. "When Northland contacted us it felt like the right fit. Even though it's not a permanent solution it helps keep this bookstore close to its roots. Northland clearly understands the need for unique local businesses that support the community."
The space is only available for the next two years because the property is part of a 30 acre redevelopment in the planning stages with the city of Newton that will include housing, retail, and office space. Peter Standish, Northland senior v-p, said, "Our concern is that the city of Newton should not lose this important institution. We are pleased to be able to facilitate New England Mobile Fook Fair's ongoing service and commitment to the people of Newton."
Standish also noted: "This use fits squarely with the vision for our proposed mixed-use development, and we hope to find the bookstore a permanent home here."