Auntie’s Bookstore reopens curbside pickup thanks to PPP loan

Erin Robinson by Erin Robinson

Auntie's Bookstore in Downtown Spokane

SPOKANE, Wash. — Auntie’s Bookstore in downtown Spokane is now able to reopen in a limited capacity thanks to a Paycheck Protection Program loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration.

The bookstore remains closed to the public, but its employees are now able to fulfill mail orders in-house and bring back its curbside pickup program.

At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, employees would deliver books to customers on the corner of Washington and Main. The bookstore had to temporarily stop the curbside program, but will soon be able to offer it daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“We are just restarting, so be patient and give us some time to work out the kinks. AND THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR SUPPORT DURING THESE TRYING TIMES!!” said owner John Waite in a Facebook post. “Little, local businesses like Auntie’s and Merlyn’s Spokane are getting crushed while big box and corporate online are killing it. We appreciate all the help you can give us.”

Those looking to buy books can call 509-838-0206.

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