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Rubin seeking new owner for The Book Stall in Winnetka
Roberta Rubin, owner of The Book Stall, which is celebrating a big anniversary next week. | Joel Lerner~Sun-Times Media
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Updated: June 4, 2012 10:51AM
Roberta Rubin, owner of The Book Stall on Chestnut Court, wants to find someone to take over the business she bought 30 years ago and run it with as much enthusiasm as she has.
“By this summer, I’ll be actively looking for someone,” Rubin said.
But she backed off saying the business is for sale, as was reported today by Publishers Weekly, which last month named The Book Stall its Bookstore of the Year.
“It’s not up for sale,” Rubin said. “I’m talking to people who might be interested in buying it, but I’m still making that decision.” Rubin, 74, said. “I’m plotting an exit strategy.”
She anticipates it will take about a year to sell the business. Publishers Weekly reported Rubin had drafted a letter she plans to mail to her customers this summer explaining her plans.
She already has talked to several people who, in the past, have told her they were interested in owning an independent bookstore, “but so far nobody has committed to it,” Rubin said.
“I would want someone who really wants to dig in and run the store.”
None of her four grown children are ready to take over for her. One is in the Internet-side of the business. Another child would like to own The Book Stall, “but she lives in New York and can’t do it,” Rubin said.
Rubin has made The Book Stall an important asset in the community with readings, book signings, workshops and children’s activities in the store and at other locations in the Chicago area.
