Swamp Fox Bookstore has begun its move to a new location at 1375 7th Ave., Marion.
The original location, in Marion’s West End, has closed and the new location will officially open on Wednesday, Feb. 7. The bookstore will also host a grand opening event for Independent Bookstore Day, Saturday, April 27, which is also the third anniversary of their original opening celebration.
“We are so excited that the community has supported us and showed us they want a locally owned bookstore in their backyard!” said Terri LeBlanc, co-owner of Swamp Fox Bookstore, in a news release. “The new shop in Uptown Marion allows for more gathering space, where we can not only recommend books, but allow people to share what they’re reading with others. Plus, it consolidates all operations under one roof.”
The woman-owned bookstore has had retail space in Marion’s West End since July 2020, but administrative tasks have been performed offsite. Ms. LeBlanc, Amanda Zhorne and Ursla Lanphear opened the tiny shop featuring books from their personal collection and from another bookstore that had closed. The space added a kids’ unit in 2021 and consolidated in 2022 when a larger unit became available, the release states.
“Now, with 1,150 square feet to work with, our inventory and hours may expand a little, but our goal is for the store to feel cozy, like you’re walking into someone’s living room,” Ms. LeBlanc said. “We want to be a gathering space for book lovers so everyone can learn about new authors and discover books they might like.”
During its closure, the bookstore will continue to operate its website www.bookshop.org/shop/swampfoxbookstore, where patrons can buy gift cards and books online.
In addition, Swamp Fox is sponsoring three author events at the Marion Public Library in February and March, featuring popular children’s author Elana K. Arnold on Feb. 8, Iowa-based romance author Denise Williams on Feb. 12 and New York Times bestselling author Heather Gudenkauf on March 26. Books will be for sale at the events, while supplies last. Swamp Fox Bookstore and its cosponsors will donate 10% of on-site sales to the Marion Public Library.
For the latest updates on the bookstore’s move and book purchasing, visit https://www.swampfoxbookstore.com/contact-store-hours/moving-faq.
