Serendipity Books, Chelsea, Mich., will be moving early this year from its Middle Street location to a larger space at 119 South Main St., which is currently undergoing a complete build-out. The move-in date is not yet finalized but owner Michelle Tuplin said she expects to be settling into the new location--and throwing a celebration party--by early spring.
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| Serendipity's current location. | |
"We are ready to step into the role of a Main Street foundational retailer, attracting visitors from a wide area and strengthening the economic vitality of our downtown," Tuplin said. "At the same time, we're excited to become an anchoring cultural location that will unite our theater and restaurants."
The new location is two-and-a-half-times larger than the bookstore's current space, which "will allow us to welcome all our guests into an inviting bookstore without physical barriers," Tuplin noted. "This dream move is only possible with the support and encouragement we receive from so many. For that, we are immensely grateful."
In a note to customers announcing the move, Tuplin wrote, in part: "In many ways, Serendipity Books will be just as it is now. There'll be the same thoughtful collection of books, curated with the care and attention we are known for. An inviting, warm ambiance will signal to visitors they are welcome and might want to make the bookstore their happy place. We'll still ask after your pet and know so many of you by name. We'll continue to offer fun events that build our community connections and make us all more. Newcomers to Chelsea will continue to visit us first and meet new friends....
"The new location is steeped in Chelsea's history. Details that reflect and showcase that history will be incorporated into the bookstore design. Look out for the original marble counter and grill from the law offices, not to mention the vintage pre-Depression Kempf Bank pendant lights. And books of course. You'll see lots and lots of books!"