Just before the newest Barnes & Noble store opened its doors in Southbury on the morning of Wednesday, June 18, nearly 100 people had lined up in anticipation of the store’s grand opening.
Located in the Southbury Green, the book store is one of three new Barnes & Noble locations coming to Connecticut this year — and one of more than 60 new stores the national bookseller plans to launch across the country.
As the ribbon was cut just after 10:00 a.m., store manager Sharon Ewing watched on as locals poured into the store for the first time.
“It’s really indicative of how excited this community is for us to be here,” Ewing said. “We’re excited to be a part of this community.”
The store employs around 20 people, and will be open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., except for Sundays when they are open until 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday’s opening marked the return of a retail bookstore to Southbury, which last had in 2011 before Borders closed.
“It’s a privilege and it’s an honor to give that opportunity back,” Ewing added. “We had a soft opening yesterday and the feedback was just tremendous.”
Customers like Greg Schroll came from Hartford for the store’s opening.
“I wanted to be one of the first customers,” said Schroll, holding his new purchase.
Amy Permini, of Woodbury, said she’s looking forward to future author signings and events the local store will hold — and, of course, the books.
“Everybody has their tablets and devices, but I also think it’s good to have a book in your hand,” she added.
The new store occupies the former GAP clothing store space at 775 Main Street South.
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