Bay Area’s 174-Year Old Bookstore Files Bankruptcy, Closes Berkeley Shop
Books Inc., the oldest independent bookstore company in the Bay Area, announced this week that it has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in an effort to reorganize its business and secure a sustainable future. The company, which has been serving California readers for 174 years, emphasized that it will continue operations during the reorganization process.
In a statement, Books Inc. cited “steadily rising operating costs and dramatically changing consumer buying habits” as the primary factors behind the decision. The challenges were further compounded by the economic aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic. CEO Andy Perham reassured customers and the community that the company is committed to overcoming these hurdles.
“Books Inc. is not going away,” Perham said. “Our board, investors, senior managers, and key partners agree that reorganizing with the tools afforded us by Chapter 11 is the fastest path toward putting our company on a smaller, financially stronger platform from which we can continue our long legacy of serving California readers.”
Changes on the Horizon
As part of the restructuring, Books Inc. will close its Berkeley location on February 9. However, the company plans to transfer some staff to other locations. Books Inc.’s remaining 10 stores—spread across the East Bay, the Peninsula, San Francisco, and San Francisco International Airport—will continue to operate as usual, pending court approval of the proposed reorganization plan.
The bookstore chain has also confirmed that its website will remain fully operational for online orders. The company’s frequent reader program and related benefits will continue without interruption. Customers with gift cards purchased at the Berkeley store can redeem them at any of the other locations or online.
A Call for Community Support
Books Inc. has long been a beloved institution in the Bay Area, offering curated selections of books, hosting author events, and fostering community engagement. Now, the company is asking for support from loyal customers to help weather this financial challenge.
“The best thing that people can do to help Books Inc. quickly get through this challenging time is to come in the store and buy books, or order from us online,” Perham said. “Our booksellers will continue to do their very best to provide readers with a vibrant, enriching, and fun experience.”
A Storied Legacy
Founded in 1851 during California’s Gold Rush, Books Inc. has survived fires, earthquakes, economic downturns, and a rapidly evolving retail landscape. Despite these challenges, it has remained a cornerstone of the Bay Area’s literary community.
The reorganization plan aims to preserve this legacy while adapting to modern economic realities. With the backing of its board, investors, and community, Books Inc. hopes to emerge from Chapter 11 stronger and better positioned to serve readers for generations to come.
For Bay Area residents looking to support this historic bookstore, now is the time to visit one of its remaining locations or shop online. Together, the community can help ensure that Books Inc. continues to thrive as a beacon for book lovers in the region.
Read more at Books, Inc.
Hat Tip: SF Gate
