Owner Andy Graves says the tough economy and nearby chains have forced this very difficult decision.
"Books look pretty much the same as they did in 1974 but the book business doesn't look anything like it did in 1974," he says. "It's completely changed and we're just having to roll with the times."
The independent bookstore first opened in 1974 and moved to its current location in 1988. Andy and his wife Carrie took over the shop from its founders, Rhett and Betty Jackson, in 1996. Andy says he considers the Jacksons like "a third set of grandparents."
Andy says his unique shop provides more than books.
"It's really been about building relationships one at a time and when you're around for 34 years you know that's a long time to build up a lot of memories," he explains.
Many regular patrons are devastated over the loss of their neighborhood gem.
Beverly Stidham has been shopping at The Happy Bookseller for more than 20 years and calls it "her favorite bookstore." Now, she says, "It's going tobe a real vacancy in the neighborhood and the city of columbia."
Andy and his wife Carrie are trying to see the closing in a positive light, despite their commitment to the shop.
He says,"We also like to view these as opportunities for growth and for new opportunities and as we bring this chapter to a close we look forward to new chapters in the future."
The Happy Bookseller will host a sale, starting September 18 with all books one third off. Their doors will officially close October 31.
