Second Star to the Right, the children's and young adult book and toy store in Denver, Colo., is up for sale; if a buyer is not found, owner and founder Dea Lavoie plans to close the bookstore sometime in 2025.
In a message to customers announcing her decision, Lavoie emphasized that the bookstore is not closing right away. "My amazing toy buyer, Alethea, said customers needed time for closure and to remember a holiday here, and I agree."
There will be plenty of books, gifts, and toys available through the rest of the year, and all of the store's scheduled events will continue as planned. Lavoie intends to provide an update in the new year.
Lavoie said she was especially proud of the community connections and programs the store has created over the past 12 years, such as the Gay It Forward campaign, where customers can buy an LGBTQ book and offer it for free to anyone who needs it. She also cited partnerships with schools and libraries, both local and in other states, as well as events like Drag Queen Story Times, birthday parties, weddings, book fairs, and more.
She thanked her husband and staff, along with the community and the store's customers. "Most of all, I want to thank you. You have let us into your heart, and become family. You have snuggled in with us when it was snowing, mourned with us when, well, we were mourning, sang, danced, and splashed with us... and you shared your love of reading with us, and your kids will remember and cherish that love!
"It is not with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to you,our friends, and Second Star. It is with a full and grateful heart, and the knowledge that in fact, I was able to shine the light of a loving, whimsical place called Second Star to the Right with you, where we all are made of magic! The stars are shining bright!"
Prospective buyers can reach out to Mark Kaufman via e-mail here.