Henry Burton, owner of Fremont Place Books, announced that he will close his store at the end of this month.

In a letter to all his friends and customers he wrote,

"This is the letter I had hoped I would never have to write.  With deep regret I have to let you know the time has come to close Fremont Place Books...Because sales have dropped precipitously and the bookstore’s debts have increased dramatically, we have reached the point where the business is no longer sustainable...

Local, independent bookstores are so much more than places to purchase a product. They are centers for inspiration, information sharing, and community building.  As such I have felt a tremendous responsibility to keep the store open.  I am well aware that closing the store is not only a loss for me personally, but also a great loss to Fremont. "

Fremont Place Books has been in Fremont for 22 years and became an important landmark and community asset. Burton took over the store seven years ago and said it has been a privilege to be part of that history.

Burton said online stores like Amazon, e-readers, and the economic downturn have been "nibbling away" at his sales for a while forcing him to cut opening hours.

"Simply put, sales have been declining and bills have gone up," said Burton. "I never wanted it to come to this. It's a real, real shame."

Burton said he has yet to figure out what career path is next for him but book selling will not be it. "The book selling in general is not sustainable anymore," he said.

The store will close on Sunday, Feb 27 and until then, everything will be on sale, including the bookcases, tables, and office supplies.

"I am immensely grateful to all of you for your support, encouragement and advice.  What I will miss the most is my interactions with all the wonderful people who have come into the store, many of whom I now consider friends," Burton said.

A closing party, or wake as Burton called it, will be held on Sunday, Feb 27 from noon until 6 p.m. Fremont Place Books is located at 621 North 35th Street in Fremont.