Longtime owner Sarah Bagby has sold Watermark Books & Cafe in Wichita, Kan., to new owners Erin and Ryan Potter, the Wichita Eagle reported.
The Potters were regular customers at Watermark before deciding to buy it. They both have day jobs, which they will keep, and will rely on the store's staff to run things. They do not have any significant changes to the store in mind. Their immediate goals include ensuring a smooth ownership transition and becoming part of the Watermark community.
"We're here to enhance what the community already loves about Watermark and want to continue to make it a special place for everyone," Erin Potter told the Eagle.
In a statement, Bagby said of the Potters: "In our meetings, they were keen to learn more about my story with the bookstore and indicated that they were not looking to make sweeping changes. Customers appreciate our supportive and informed staff. I have confidence that in partnership with the staff, the Potters will ensure that Watermark Books & Cafe remains Wichita’s home for books."
Erin Potter grew up in Neodesha, Kan., and works in physician and provider recruitment, while Ryan Potter grew up in Manhattan, Kan., and is a v-p at Koch Engineered Solutions. They met while attending Wichita State University, and decided to settle in the area.
Watermark was first opened in 1977 by original owner Bruce Jacobs. Bagby became majority owner in 1996 and moved the store to its current location in Lincoln Heights. She put the store on the market earlier this year.