25 Jan 2012
To Our Neighbors –
Page 1 is thrilled to announce that we have reached an agreement that will allow us to complete the process of bankruptcy and keep our doors open.
The decision to take measures for bankruptcy was a difficult one and there were no guarantees this process would work. But the community rose to the occasion and gave us their support in more than words. Folks who hadn’t been to the store in years came by in droves to let us know they felt we were important enough in the community to support.
It was all or nothing. The decision was completely in the judge’s hands. If he had decided that the creditors could receive more via liquidation, then we would have had no other option but to close our doors. We’re not out of bankruptcy yet, but we’re on the right path towards getting clear by March.
This has been a difficult time for our store and there were times when we worried if we would be able to continue to serve our community. We let our neighbors know that we were in trouble and you’ve all come out to prove that a local independent bookstore is a treasured asset in New Mexico.
This is a huge relief for not only the employees but especially for me, the owner. When I opened Page 1 in 1981, it was a simple newsstand that we transformed into the largest, independent bookstore in New Mexico. We’ve maintained a versatile approach that at one time included software and computer classes in the 1980’s when home computers were still groundbreaking. Later, we had an impressive music selection complete with listening stations. But, as the marketplace has changed, so have we. No longer do we have a separate store for used books. Now we’re one complete shopping location for books – new and used – and if we don’t have it in stock, we’re happy to order it for you. This sets us apart from most of our competitors.
Another note of gratitude goes out to the employees of Page 1. When things were unclear, not one of our team left the store because of the uncertain future. Their confidence in our mission inspired me to keep trying.
Page 1 is not like other bookstores. We have a team of booksellers who are enthusiastic about reading. We read tons of books and then share with our customers what we think are the best options out there. We have folks who know about children’s books, science fiction, classics, poetry, history, metaphysics, cooking and more! We don’t just have jobs, we have passions. Other bookstores just sell books. We sell experiences! Give us a few minutes and we’ll dazzle you with titles we love to share!
We have a lot of upcoming events: release party with potluck for Hunger Games in mid-March, our 31st Anniversary party on March 31st, author events as well as our ongoing activities such as the Celtic Jammers on Thursday evenings, Adobe Walls Poetry Open Mic nights, our Local Author Fair each month. Check out our website for updates.
Page 1 has been in business for over 30 years. With your continued support, we will be here for future generations to turn to for affordable, fascinating books.
Often imitated but never duplicated, Page 1 is here to stay, so come in and experience what no corporate bookstore can offer. Your neighbors and community are here and only with your continued support will we be the success that we envision.
Thank you all for the past year. It has been a humbling learning experience.
Steven Morado Stout
Owner, Page 1 Bookstore