Mondragon Books, a used and new bookstore in Lewisburg, Pa., is relocating from 430 Market St. to 302 Market St., its third location since 2017, the Daily Item reported. Owner Sarajane Snyder said "tons of community members showed up to help move everything" and a GoFundMe campaign raised more than $10,000 to help with the moving costs.
"It was really uplifting, and I'm delighted," she said. "Everyone seemed eager and happy to help. It really made me feel supported and that people love the bookstore a lot."
Cosmetic renovations like painting and lighting are underway, with the goal of opening by February 2, when the Heart of Lewisburg Ice Festival starts. A grand opening celebration is tentatively planned for mid-February.
Noting that a different location was needed when a new owner purchased 430 Market St., Snyder said that Shop LOCAL Lewisburg closed down at 302 Market St., presenting the opportunity for the bookshop to relocate into a space double in size and at a busy section of the street.
"We got very lucky," said Snyder. "This space is so awesome. It's a great move for us."
Charles Sackrey opened the bookstore in 2009. Snyder took over ownership for $1 in 2017, and Mondragon moved from its original location to 430 Market St. in 2020.
"Charles was a very community-oriented person," said Snyder. "He was it as a community service. He saw in me that I would carry that forward."
She added that the goal for the new space is to have an increased book and record inventory, vintage stereo and typewriters, book clubs and events. She will also re-create the well-known tree that was in the former location. "I feel like we're leveling up, like we're graduating into something that will be here for a long time. That's my hope."