Olsson’s Books painful fight to the bitter end seems to have reached its tipping point. The five remaining shops in the Washington area shuttered this week, seemingly for good. I wrote previously about the decades-old local independent book franchise filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy as well as the closing this past summer of its Penn Quarter outpost.
Via Olsson’s website, here’s a note of eulogy from owner and Washington native John Olsson:
Although it is certainly a sad day for us, I can rejoice in all the great memories of my life in retail in Washington. I began at Discount Record Shop on Connecticut Avenue in the fall of 1958, and worked there until 1972 when I left to open my own record store at 1900 L Street. Along the way books were added, more locations, a couple thousand employees, and many thousands of customers. It was exhilarating. Through it all, our best and brightest served Washington’s best and brightest with love and distinction.
To which we say: Blasted economy and chain stores! I just hope the other local indie book shops help fill the void by booking authors for readings and signings. Olsson’s, you’ll be missed.
The owner was outside our offices – at the Old Town location – speaking to Fox 5 News this afternoon. He was so sad but cute in his suspenders …
A sad day indeed, which I suppose I helped to hasten by patronizing those mega-chains from time to time. Olsson’s always had great a selection and, unusual for today, knowledgeable staff. Alas.