Sandi Brown is in the process of acquiring the 43-year-old Burry Bookstore, Hartsville, S.C., which was put up for sale in January. In a letter to customers posted on the store's Facebook page, current owner Emily Burry Phillips wrote that "over the last four months it has been refreshing to discuss and dream with two new friends, Sandi Brown and Shane Gottwals, the way Burry Bookstore can maintain its legacy of service to the community, yet transform and position itself for a viable future in Hartsville's downtown district."
When Brown becomes the owner later this year, she will add the ability to buy and trade used books to the mix of new titles and sidelines, thanks to a deal with Gottwals's Walls of Books franchising operation, which "will be an integral part of the bookstore's business plan," Phillips noted. "Sandi and Shane share my passion for books and are successful, experienced leaders among their professional peers. Sandi's vision for the bookstore's future is innovative and progressive. Not only will customers be able to browse through stacks of books and enjoy a cup of coffee by the fireplace, her goal is for it to become a gathering place for all ages in the community."
Phillips concluded her letter by expressing "mixed emotions" about her decision, observing: "No positive change occurs without the giving up of something. But change has to occur and time refuses to stand still. I will take with me the many happy memories and experiences that you, our loyal customers have provided. I am thankful to have had the opportunity to make a difference in the community I love, and I greatly look forward to what the future holds for what is dear to my heart and the place I have called my second home for almost 43 years."
