Anders Bookstore, Auburn, Ala., which had been in business since January 1966, has closed permanently, Al.com reported. The bookstore's building will be demolished to make room for a 177-room hotel.
The bookstore, described as an "Auburn icon," had deep ties to the community and to Auburn University. It was owned and operated by the Anders family for decades, and Auburn Mayor Ron Anders Jr. was CEO of the bookstore for 20 years, succeeding his father and grandfather.
The Anders family sold the store in 2005. Most recently it was operated by Follett.