Beachside Bookstore in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, Closing Permanently

For so many that take a trip to Old Orchard Beach, Maine, during the summer, there are a few reminders that you're "home".

It could be the smells. The scent of Pier Fries or pizza from one of the many shops along the main drag.

It could be the sounds from the Palace Playland arcade, with its many games attempting to draw you in.

And for some, it's the feel of the beachside bookstore known as Wholesale Books. The quiet and calm inside the open-air bookstore was a relief for many.

According to a social media post in the Old Orchard Beach, Maine, Facebook group, it won't be for much longer.

Wholesale Books in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, to Close Permanently

Also referred to as Barnett Books, the open-air bookstore smushed between a pair of restaurants has been a reprieve for visitors to Old Orchard Beach, Maine, looking for a light read, puzzle book or even a newspaper.

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Over the course of many years, the bookstore has become part of the familiar routine for many that visit the beach town during the height of tourism season.

Signage popped up at the book store over the last week indicating a massive book sale. Most believed it was simply to clear inventory at the end of another season. Instead, the book store plans to close permanently.

The owner of the book store has decided to step away from the business to focus on health.

Will Another Book Store Open At The Wholesale Books Space in Old Orchard Beach?

Once Wholesale Books closes permanently, it will leave behind a very large and specific hole in Old Orchard Beach.

While there remains plenty of food to eat, plenty of games to be played and plenty of souvenirs to be purchased, there won't be a place for people to find quality reading material anywhere near the beach.

Perhaps someone sees the value and can create a bookstore of their own in that space or nearby.