Penny Padgett, owner of The Book Shelf in Tryon, N.C., has lowered the purchase price of her store to $70,000, which includes all inventory, fixtures, furniture, vendor accounts and more. In a post on the store's Facebook page Padgett explained that since putting the store up for sale in September 2018, she has received some serious inquiries but no offers. The reduction in price serves as a way to encourage potential buyers and, Padgett said, as the store's last notice of sale.
"There are some exciting possibilities for this store, including the creation of a reading, knitting and/or meeting room and even establishing it as a co-op," wrote Padgett. "This is a wonderful opportunity for a unique business with a long history here in Tryon."
Padgett purchased the store in July 2010 from Betsy Goree. The Book Shelf originally opened in 1952 and carries a selection of new and used books for children, teens and adults. Padgett said she is selling the store now due to "major changes" coming in her life and the need "to be able to devote a good portion of my time to other ventures." In the years ahead, she hopes to continue her association with the store but as a customer and not the owner.
"For the past eight years I have been privileged to be a part of the downtown Tryon business scene," continued Padgett. "I have learned a lot about being a small business owner and I have met a lot of great folks and made many new friends of the readers who live in this area. It has truly been a labor of love."
Padgett can be reached either at 828-859-9304 or at tryonbookshelf@gmail.com.