Lisa Stefanacci, owner of The Book Works in Del Mar, California, announced that the 35-year old store will be closing in July because of competition from online booksellers and the profound growth of digital books. “I did everything I possibly could to keep the store going,” says Stefanacci, who bought The Book Works five years ago. “Our landlord even helped us to remodel the store, but ultimately that didn’t bring more customers in. Sales are not meeting expenses, and I haven’t taken a salary in two and a half years.” After consulting with two business brokers earlier in the year Stefanacci, a former scientist, decided not to try and sell the store. “It’s simply a losing, debt-heavy business,” she says, “and even the idea of taking on a partner doesn’t appeal to me.”
Half of the staff at The Book Works volunteered to work without pay last year, which Stefanacci gratefully agreed to for a few months until she insisted on resuming their salaries. “That wasn’t the answer; it wasn’t right,” she says, “but I really have had the best staff anyone could ask for.” The decision to close was not a hasty one, nor was it easy. “Owning a bookstore has been fabulous. It’s the best job in the world, romantic and inspiring. I have no regrets, but it’s hard now to have to absorb the pain of the community as my customers come in to say goodbye.”
The Book Works was the first tenant in the upscale Flower Hill Promenade when it opened in 1976 and has remained in the same space ever since. The area serves the affluent Rancho Santa Fe and Del Mar communities in San Diego County. Everything in the store is currently being sold at a 20% discount, which will likely increase as the closing date approaches.
