Ante Books & Creative Studios in McAllen, Tex., will close early next month, myRGV reported.
"Thank you all who visited the shop, bought a book--gave a book--recommended a book, gave a workshop, attended a workshop, held a community event, the list goes on," wrote owner Selina Herrera in an announcement on social media. "Thank you a million times over for your support and encouragement these past couple years. I hope Ante meant something to you just as it did me."
Herrera told myRGV she decided to close the store because "it was a really rough 2025." Difficulties began in the spring with tariffs, ICE raids, and a flood. Sales did not bounce back, even during the holidays, and the store was down some 50%-75% compared to 2024.
"Folks have probably shied away from doing the normal activities they regularly do," Herrera said. "A bookstore is probably the last thing on their mind at this point in time, and I don't blame them for that. Because even me, as the bookstore owner, I am also conscious of everything that's going on. While I'd love to remain open, there's just so much more at this point in time that has to take priority."
Herrera opened Ante Books on June 3, 2024. She sold books in English and Spanish exploring "identity, migration, and the complexities of life on the border" while emphasizing queer and diverse voices. Herrera also held frequent community events, including screenings, art workshops, author events, open mic nights, reading clubs, bike repair lessons, and much more.
Noting that she made the decision to open the store not long after getting separated, she chose the name Ante Books as a way to reflect that she was betting on herself.
"I am just so grateful to everyone for taking a chance on the bookstore, and ultimately on themselves too," Herrera said. "I can't wait to see what they do, and if the bookstore was any inspiration to them."
The store's last day in business will be February 6.