Derf and Mary Ann Maitland, longtime owners of the Reader's Cafe in Hanover, Pa., have sold the bookstore to new owners, the Hanover Evening Sun reported. The new owners, who officially take over on August 1, plan to change the store's name to Little Fox Coffee & Books.
In a Facebook post announcing the change, the Maitlands wrote: "After almost 29 years, we have decided to sell the Reader's Cafe. The support you have given us over the years has been overwhelming and the friendships we've made will be cherished always.
"As of August 1st we leave 125 Broadway in good hands, but under a new name and new ownership. We have always felt that we couldn't leave until the right people came along and we feel that that day has come. We won't give out too much information, for that is their story to write, but we can say it's like looking in a mirror 29 years ago as a young family with lots of ideas and a lot of excitement!"
The Maitlands noted that the new owners have always dreamed of opening a bookstore, and they encouraged Reader's Cafe customers to "embrace and support them as you have us, so that they can continue to give our community a great place to gather. So…as we quietly slip out the back door, please welcome them as they walk in the front door!"
In preparation for the change, the Reader's Cafe is running a sale until July 31. Used books are 50% off, new books are 40% off, and consignment books are 20% off.