Saltwater Bookstore, which opened in 2023 in the historic district of Marblehead, Mass., is under new ownership, with founder Laura Cooper passing the torch to one of the shop's booksellers, Joe Navarre.
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| Joe Navarre | |
Describing the years since launching her business as "an amazing experience," Cooper posted on Instagram: "Through hard work, passion, dedicated employees, and incredible local support, Saltwater has been wildly successful and continues to grow. Saltwater is primed and ready for its next big chapter, filled with more community engagement, including author events, book clubs, and more.
"At the same time, however, I am also ready for my next chapter, as I transition to an empty nester. My husband and I are looking forward to more time together filled with new adventures and travel plans. Thus, I will be stepping away as owner. The decision to sell Saltwater has not been an easy one, as I've put my heart and soul into every aspect of this store, and I know how much it means to our wonderful reading community. It was essential for me to find the right fit to continue Saltwater's story, and I was lucky enough to have found him"
She added that she couldn't be happier with the change, adding that Navarre's "book expertise, attention to detail and design, and personable nature will certainly enable great success. I hope you continue to support Joe and Saltwater, along with super booksellers Cesca and Jack, as you've supported me through the years."
Navarre called the ownership change "a new chapter for me--literally and figuratively--at Saltwater Bookstore. I am honored to be stepping in to continue the story of this wonderful bookstore in Marblehead. The heart of Saltwater will remain the same--a warm place for readers, good books, and quiet discovery. In the months ahead, I am excited to introduce a few new community moments and collaborations: book clubs, children’s story hours, and other gatherings for fellow book lovers. For now, stop in and say hello--and tell me what you’re reading."
While Cooper's final weekend as owner was last Sunday, she noted: "Please know the many wonderful connections I've made at Saltwater will last a lifetime. I will always cherish my time at the bookstore and look forward to watching Saltwater grow and remain an essential part of our Marblehead community. Many thanks again for an incredibly rewarding experience... it really has been a dream come true!"