The Samuel French Film & Theatre Bookshop in Hollywood, Calif., will close effective March 31. Broadway World reported that the company’s "extensive collection of iconic acting edition play scripts and musical libretti will continue to be available online through the Samuel French website" as well as at Samuel French's bookshop in London's Royal Court Theatre, which celebrates its first anniversary next month.
Citing a significant decline in sales for over the past decade, BWW observed that more than 80% of Samuel French's retail sales are now made online.
"Although the community loves the store and its exceptional staff, most people are choosing to buy their books from e-retailers these days," said company president Nathan Collins. "It is an unfortunate situation, in which many other bookshops find themselves. However, the good news is that Samuel French continues to serve the world online with an unparalleled range of shows to license and scripts to purchase. This is supported by our expert staff in New York, London, and L.A. and their outstanding service to our customers. Additionally, we are excited to continue exploring new ways to support the playwriting community in the digital age."
Samuel French will be donating scripts and other materials from the closure to local libraries, theaters and educational institutions.
"It's one small way for us to give back to the community," Collins added. "The bookstore has been a beloved landmark for decades and we are extremely grateful to our dedicated staff and loyal customers who have run and supported it for so many years."