Midtown Reader, Tallahassee, Fla., has purchased the building next door and, after it's demolished, will use the space to expand the store and for additional parking, the Tallahassee Democrat reported.
"I'm really excited about it," owner Sally Bradshaw told the newspaper. "This is our eighth year, and I think our customers have shown there is a need for and a demand for a locally owned bookstore." The store expansion, she noted, will provide an events space and more inventory for Midtown Reader.
The building to be demolished was the home of Waterworks, a tiki bar that closed in January after 32 years in business. Many businesses in the Midtown area have long complained about a lack of adequate parking for customers.
On Facebook, the store posted in part, "We have long enjoyed partnering with Waterworks for movie nights, book signings, and everything we love about the Midtown neighborhood. But we have some exciting news! Last week, Midtown Reader purchased the Waterworks property, and we are planning a future expansion to grow what we love: our community.
"We're so grateful for the support of our readers over the last eight years, and it's always been our dream to bring you more books, new authors, and expanded event space in-house. You've proved that indie bookstores feed a community, and you've encouraged our growth. This won't happen overnight, but in the meantime, we remain grateful to be your neighborhood bookstore. Stay tuned for our progress, and keep shopping and reading local!"