Owner Dave Simpson and employee Alexsander Sedzielarz in front of Lafayette Book Store Photo Cathy Tyson

Dave Simpson, owner of the independent Lafayette Book Store since February 1998, just announced the closure of his brick and mortar location in the Clocktower Building. The final day at that location is scheduled for July 29 - a party is planned and all used books will be 20% off.

"I think by the time the Art and Wine Festival rolls around, the building will be empty. Just about everyone's lease is up (by September)," opined Simpson.

"Our off-site events program will continue to run as a separate business, and that grows every day - expanding to Phoenix, Portland, Reno, Las Vegas and more," said Simpson. The entity will still continue to serve local non-profits like the Commonwealth Club, Friends of the Library events and school book fairs.

Simpson developed an innovative membership program called Book Culture - for an annual fee members could get books 40% off. Fear not, Book Culture members, membership is still valid, online-ordered books will be available at the new location of FastFrame - moving soon to 2010 Brown Avenue.

Other favorites that residents have come to know and love will still be available. Once per week, staff will make recommendations from the staff pick table at a location to be determined. Weekend book sales will still occur, but now they'll be in front of FastFrame.