Sad news down at Lakewood Ranch Main Street

Holly Baracchini, left, and her daughter Heidi Allwood announced today that they are closing Little Bookworms on Friday. (Herald file photo)

After 6 years in business, Little Bookworms will close its doors, owners Heidi Allwood and Holly Baracchini announced today.

The recession, along with a dramatic decline in book sales, have made it nearly impossible to stay profitable, they said in a press release.

“We are deeply saddened that we have to make this decision, but it is the only option for us right now,” Allwood said.

“We have loved being a part of Main Street at Lakewood Ranch. It is such a vibrant and exciting retail location. Main Street itself is thriving, but our store in particular is faced with such a drop in book sales over the past 2 years that we can no longer stay open.”

Heidi Allwood said she has taken a position with Charles A. Roy Roofing in Bradenton, and Holly Baracchini is a nurse at Healthcare America in Bradenton.

Little Bookworms plans to close its doors for good on Friday, August 12.

For more, see Tuesday's Herald.