Despite local support, Morningside Bookshop closes

Despite support of locals upset over the closing of Morningside Bookshop—neighborhood residents pledged a sum of $95,000 to help keep the doors open—owner Peter Soter determined officially that his independent store must go out of business.

Soter said that, though he was moved by the financial support and presence of the neighborhood, he owes $150,000 to Columbia—his landlord—and the pledges are simply not enough.

“There is no way. Columbia has other plans. Morningside [Bookshop] is gone,” Soter said.

The store has remained open about a week past Soter’s projected closing date. But he said, “I am just dragging my feet. I got to get out of here.”

There have been rumors that Book Culture—an independent shop two blocks south—is looking to take over, Soter confirmed. “The outcry of support led them [Columbia] to reconsider, and now it seems they will be putting a bookstore here, so they claim,” he said.

“I hope that Book Culture keeps the spirit of the inclusive bookstore for all people,” Soter said, though he added his disappointment that he would not be a part of the incoming shop.

After he is fully moved out, Soter said he is not sure what he is going to do in the future.

“I gotta go to sleep to dream again.”