Susan K. Nelson, longtime owner of the Book Loft in Fernandina Beach, Fla., who "devoted her time to the bookstore and to the community it served" for more than two decades, died January 26. She was 83. In a social media post, the bookstore noted: "Her dedication, love of books, and commitment to fostering connection left a lasting impact on all who knew her and on the many lives touched by the Book Loft."
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On the bookshop's website, Nelson had written that the Book Loft "is the legacy of my husband, the late Bill Nelson. A former business executive from Ohio, lending a hand to a bookstore there, discovered a whole new lifestyle for himself.... Bill created an 'old-fashioned' bookstore where people can browse and enjoy a beautiful collection of books. Our customers become nostalgic when they approach the store slowly, stand and stare at what they have missed."
After her husband's death in 2011, Sue Nelson recalled that she "jumped in with both feet to sustain the operation despite the economic downturn and bleak outlook for indie bookstores. I haven't looked back! Our customers are loyal, the Amelia Island visitors are generous, and we have flourished as the island's oldest independent bookstore."
In 2018, she was presented with the Literacy Champion award by the Amelia Island Book Festival Awards program, the Fernandina Observer wrote. At the time, chairman Steve Berry said, "The Literacy Champion award is awarded to you, Sue Nelson, for offering a supportive environment for local authors and promoting events that encourage the joy of reading, writing and lifelong learning among people of all ages."
Nelson "became a cherished fixture in the historic downtown, known for her warmth, sharp intellect, and ability to connect readers with exactly the right book. Her presence left a lasting imprint on the cultural life of Fernandina Beach," the Observer noted.
She was the first female president of the Erie County Chamber of Commerce and served on the board of trustees of the Sandusky State Theatre. Her volunteer service included committee work with the Sandusky Bay Festival and the March of Dimes, as well as board service with Communities in Schools in Fernandina Beach.
In a tribute, the Amelia Island Book Festival posted on Facebook: "In light of Sue Nelson's recent passing, we want to take a moment to honor and thank her for the massive role she played in supporting the Amelia Island Book Festival.... Sue shared our mission to advocate for literacy in Nassau County and The Book Loft has been a collaborating partner with AIBF for the last 25 years. Thank you Sue for all of your efforts, we will continue to honor your legacy. Our hearts are with Beth, Sue's daughter, and the entire Book Loft staff."