Books & Friends closes its doors

Books & Friends in downtown Wallace is now officially closed.

Mark Grady, author and owner of Books & Friends, announced the closing of the bookstore located at 113 N. College St., in Wallace, last week. Originally Grady had planned to keep the bookshop open until Aug. 31, however on Monday he announced the change of plans.

“Things are changing and happening much faster than I anticipated after announcing the closure of the bookshop. Since the next few weeks will likely result in bookshelves and large items being moved, I believe it would be safer to go ahead and officially close,” wrote Grady.

The Wallace business owner made the initial announcement on a social media post explaining the reason for his decision.

“It was not an easy decision at all. I opened the bookshop almost two years ago. I have met many great people and have become a mentor of sorts to several young folks in town. That last part was the most difficult in making my decision,” wrote Grady, explaining that the bookshop never had a profitable month since its opening in 2022.

“I kept the bookshop operating with funds from my other income. That was seriously affected after the writer’s strike the end of last year,” wrote Grady. “I’m sad, but also a little frustrated. This small town supports six vape shops, but rarely buys a book. What a sad reflection on our society.”

In his announcement Grady thanked the support of patrons who were regulars at the bookshop and closed asking parents to encourage reading.

“Please encourage your children to read. It’s one thing that can definitely change their lives for the best,” Grady wrote.