White Rabbit Book Cafe, Oregon City, Ore., which launched as a small bookshop in 2014 and eventually relocated "to a spot along the city's bustling Main Street and transitioning into a joint bookstore and coffee shop," will be closing, though a specific date has not been announced, the Oregonian reported.
In a recent social media post announcing the decision, White Rabbit noted: "Thank you for all the years of talking books, enjoying coffee and creating community! It has been an honor to be a part of this community.... All events in October will be happening, we hope to see you! We will keep you updated regarding the status of all other future events.... Thank you for your kindness and consideration of the amazing White Rabbit Book Cafe staff as we complete our tenure on your historic Main Street, and thank you for allowing us into your lives."
Ever since Danielle and Rolland Walsh opened the shop more than a decade ago, White Rabbit "was loved not just for its literature and lattes--but also for its unique roster of free events, from themed trivia and tarot readings to puzzle nights and 'boozy' book fairs," the Oregonian noted. A former children's librarian, Danielle Walsh "amassed a small social media following during the COVID-19 pandemic when she began hosting weekly livestreams talking about books and other gift shop items."
"People still want to have that community connection and to hear about the books," she said at the time. "The livestreams were a pivot for us and a real lifesaver."