This story has been updated to include a conversation with Sundance Books and Music owner Christine Kelly.
A steady stream of people walked into Sundance Books and Music on Wednesday.
“Don’t leave. Don’t close. Please don’t close,” said customer after customer as news spread that the independent retailer will close on May 31.
Owner Christine Kelly said it wasn’t a quick decision, but one that will let her slow down a little and spend time with family.
“It has been the honor of a lifetime,” Kelly said of running Sundance for nearly four decades. “There’s enormous sadness, and I feel incredibly fortunate.”
“It’s hard to leave, but it’s time for a new chapter,” Kelly said.
Kelly has run Sundance for 36 years, the past 13 of those in the historic Levy Mansion. She said what happens to the stately columned mansion on California Avenue is up to its owner, the Nevada Museum of Art.
“You never know,” Kelly said of the space possibly remaining an independent bookstore, adding the museum has been a good friend to the bookstore.