A changing of the guard is in the works for the Briar Patch children's bookstore, Bangor, Maine. Owner Cathy Anderson "is planning her exit strategy," and Gibran Graham "is poised to purchase an iconic downtown store next year," the Bangor Daily News reported.
"I'm in my mid-60s. My husband has been retired for several years, and we have other things to do," Anderson said. "I just don't have the energy for it anymore. I used to be able to say I had read about 75% of what was in the store, but now there are so many new books out there I have to rely on book reviews and the recommendations of the sales representatives when I order. I can't keep up with it."
She "didn't have to look far to find an enthusiastic buyer for the business she has nurtured for the last 21 years," the Daily News wrote, adding that Graham has worked at the store for the past five years. Anderson said she may help finance the purchase: "I want to facilitate his success. I hope to be able to offer better terms than a bank would offer." The transition is anticipated to take effect next year at this time.
"There's a sense of happiness that comes with this business. It's not just about the income. Happiness is at least half the payback," said Graham, adding: "Every downtown needs a bookstore. It's a cultural beacon for the community."