April 11, 2012
To my wonderful customers - 
Today I am beginning my search for a buyer for the 43-year-old Learned Owl, starting to close a long and memorable chapter of my life. I have come to the realization that, while part of me would like to continue selling books until I'm 90, the rapidly changing industry, the phenomenal growth of social media, the fact that I'm no longer supposed to be lifting boxes, AND my fear that J.K. Rowling will write another book that needs a party, drive me in my search for a qualified buyer who will carry on the store's mission. I am in no rush: The Learned Owl has been my "baby" and I have spent 28 years loving and nurturing the store. I will take whatever time necessary to find the right match.
Since I purchased the store in 1983, we have attracted booklovers from near and far, currently sponsoring well over 100 events each year. Authors who have visited have been established, up-and-coming, and of local, national or international fame. The most famous of The Learned Owl's events were the parties for the last three Harry Potter books, which brought the store international attention and visitors from across the country and overseas (and 14,000 people to downtown Hudson on the eve of July 21, 2007).
A new steward, with more energy and for whom social media is second nature, is needed to help this successful bookstore evolve, continue to thrive, and remain a leader in the bookselling industry.
This will be a new chapter for The Learned Owl, and one that I look forward to watching unfold. Please let me emphasize that the store will not be closing! We will continue our great service through this process and under the new ownership. My wonderful staff, many of whom have been there almost as long as I have, could run the store themselves. I plan to retire in Hudson, and cannot imagine living in a town without a bookstore. I will do everything during this transition and in the coming years to ensure that the store survives and continues to thrive.
I have shared your laughter and your tears, your sorrows and joys, for 28 years. I will miss this the most, and I thank you for allowing me to share them. I hope to continue to play a very active role with Main Street, the Merchants of Hudson and Destination Hudson; I love this town and the group of entrepreneurs and volunteers who give it its character, the people who live here, and the customers who love Hudson and The Learned Owl, wherever they may live.
If you know of someone with a serious interest in becoming the next owner of this wonderful store, please email me at lizmurphy204@gmail.com.
As always, HAPPY READING! Liz
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