A beloved Huntington business, and Long Island’s largest independent bookstore, is expected to close it’s doors after over 40 years in business, according to its owner.
Book Revue (located at 313 New York Ave in Huntington) which has been known for its expansive inventory of new and used books — along with frequent readings and appearances by best-selling authors, sports figures, musicians, and other celebrities — is slated to close by the end of September due to COVID-related financial hardship.
As reported in Newsday, Book Revue’s landlord (263-265 Main Corner LLC, with Emerson Dobbs III as principal) brought the business to Third District Court in Huntington for non-payment of rent this past spring and “according to court documents, the Book Revue Inc. came to a settlement agreement with Dobbs company on Aug. 4, including a $420,159.75 judgment and the issuance of a warrant eviction effective Sept. 30.”
When news of the eviction became public, there was an outpouring of support on social media including calls by many for a crowdfunding campaign to help Book Revue raise the funds they need to stay in business.
The business replied on Facebook: “As many of you have heard, it is likely that soon Book Revue will have to close its doors after 44 years in business. The outpouring of community support has been overwhelming. We want to thank all of you who have expressed your feelings about the store and its importance to the community. It has come to our attention that some people are trying to raise money on our behalf. While we appreciate this effort, we are not looking to raise funds at this time. As the situation evolves over the next few weeks, we will keep you all apprised of developments. – Richard Klein, Owner”
Emerson Dobbs III has been quoted as stating that he was contacted by a company “that wants to take over part of the Book Revue space“.
“It’s a book reseller with a contract from one of the publishing houses,” Dobbs said. “We’re working with them to occupy part of the space.”
Featured photo courtesy of Book Revue.
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