MILL CREEK — The University Book Store in Mill Creek will shut its doors next month, a casualty of what it’s characterizing as a significant rent hike.
The book store, which sells not only books and textbooks but clothing and computer accessories, is located in the Mill Creek Town Center, at 15311 Main St.
It opened in 2004.
“It is with heartfelt sorrow I announce that we will close this location at the end of business on October 19,” Louis Little, CEO of University Book Store Inc. said in a statement.
Little went on to say that “a significant rental increase contributed to this decision.”
On Friday, shoppers were already taking advantage of a 40% discount on books, but despite the savings regulars weren’t happy to learn that the store is closing.
“I’ve been coming here ever since it opened,” said Margaret Harmon. “I like the feel of a book in my hand. It’s a good place to browse,” said Harmon, a Kenmore resident.
“We come here once a month,” said Estera Padineant, a Mill Creek resident. “She loves it here,” Padineant said pointing to her 2-year-old daughter, Ava.
The “University Book Store itself remains a healthy business and will focus on its five Puget Sound area locations and a growing e-commerce business at ubookstore.com,” Little said.
“We are sincerely grateful for the many friendships made and partnerships formed, but retail and the way that people shop are rapidly evolving. We believe that our Trust, which governs our operations, will be better served by focusing on our campus stores and our website.”
The Seattle-based University Book Store is a corporate trust governed by an 11-member board of trustees consisting of University of Washington students, faculty and staff andCEO Louise Little.
“We look forward to continuing to serve you at our Seattle, Bothell, and Tacoma locations, and at ubookstore.com.”
The book store is a forum for author events and book readings, and also hosts a score of book clubs for children and adults.
Janice Podsada; jpodsada@heraldnet.com; 425-339-3097; Twitter: JanicePods.
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