La Grange area book lovers just got their Christmas wish granted with the news that Anderson’s Bookshop is coming to town.
Jerry Burjon, owner of Burkor Properties in La Grange, said negotiations have been in the works for a while and a lease was signed Dec. 5 for the former PNC Bank at La Grange Road and Calendar Avenue.
The family-run business, which operates stores in Naperville and Downers Grove, plans to rent 6,500 square feet in La Grange, Burjon said. Part of the space formerly housed Vintage Nest Modern and an office of U.S. Rep. Daniel Lipinski, D-3rd, Western Springs.
“This likely will be the second biggest retailer in La Grange after Horton’s,” Burjon said. “They could be opening in mid to late April. It’s exciting.”
Village President Tom Livingston said officials are pleased the bookseller decided to locate in La Grange.
“I’ve heard from the community over the years that La Grange needs a bookstore,” Livingston said. “They had a lot of places to choose from. We’re thrilled they chose us.”
Becky Anderson said she and her two brothers have been eying La Grange for the right location for a while.
“It’s the perfect place with a vibrant, established downtown area with lots of independent businesses and a wonderful business alliance that does all sorts of great events,” Anderson said.
Anderson said the La Grange store will be similar to the other two retail locations, but will be stocked according to customers’ preferences.
“We cater our selection to readers in each area,” she said. “Each store has its own character.”
Anderson said the staff will look forward to hosting book signings and other events, as well as developing relationships within the community.
“We love to build bridges in the community by reaching out to not-for-profits and charitable organizations,” she said. “Books are incredible for building bridges.”
La Grange has been without a bookstore since Borders closed in September 2011. Some loyal customers feared the end of brick-and-mortar stores with the rise of Internet sales.
Anderson said that hasn’t been the case with her family’s business, which has expanded. Competition still is felt from Amazon online and larger chains, but the Andersons offer alternatives, she said.
“One of our key reasons for success is we have the most fabulous employees, people who love reading, and they share that passion for it,” she said. “People come here and they get that personal service and the help to find the perfect book, toy or gift.”
A physical presence in a community also is important by paying taxes and hosting events, she said.
The company also has added a school book fair component and already serves schools in the La Grange area, Anderson said.
“Independent stores are on the rise, and we’re part of that movement,” she said. “We’re thrilled to be in downtown La Grange.”