The Horizon Books flagship store in Traverse City, Mich., will remain open. In January, co-owners Amy Reynolds and Vic Herman had announced they were planning to close the location after 58 years in business, while keeping their Cadillac store open. That plan was put on hold in the spring when the owners teamed up with the Traverse City Downtown Development Authority and Rotary to find new tenants for the building.
"Then two things happened in quick succession: Covid-19 and an outpouring of community support for the bookstore. And, the couple reevaluated their plans to sell," the Record-Eagle reported.
"We're not closing," Reynolds noted. "We're looking at how to make the building viable as a community space. We have some ideas that aren't finalized yet, but it will stay a bookstore." She added that community reaction to the news has been enthusiastic. "They either dance a little jig or cross themselves and say 'Hallelujah.' "
Rotary Charities staff worked with the Downtown Development Authority and Horizon staff to fund a $26,000 IFF study on the role of the bookstore in the community. "The really beautiful thing about Horizon is the organic way it grew into a community space," said Becky Ewing, Rotary Charities executive director. "Our board invested in the study as part of our longterm commitment to downtown. This is an indoor space that's accessible to everyone."
"The challenge is trying to find some way to finance a community space," Reynolds said. "Pending the results of the study, all I can say is we're not selling. And, if someone has a good idea on how to achieve what we're trying to do, I'm amenable to hearing what that is."
A Record-Eagle editorial yesterday celebrated the good news, noting: "There are a few definitions of cornerstone floating around in our culture. Some refer to the block situated at corner of a building near its base. Others describe a word that sums up essential, indispensable value.
"It's that second definition that comes to mind when we think of Horizon Books. That's why we were elated this week when we learned the long-time Front Street fixture will carry on its life as a bookstore and community gathering space....
"We're sure some things will change along the way, a plot twist for an institution that helps breathe life into the community we so love. But we're thankful there will be another chapter for Horizon Books."