The Book Den Turns Page

Release Date: March 8,2018

Santa Barbara's Book Den at 15 E. Anapamu Street is celebrating 85 years in existence, after four different owners in the store's history.

Current owner Eric Kelley bought the store 1979. He said the secret to the store's success has been a loyal following, along with the ability to adapt to changes in retail and bookselling.

Although Santa Barbara has lost larger bookstores such as Barnes & Noble and Borders Books & Music, Kelley said the Book Den has persevered.  

"The death of the book, and corresponding demise of book stores, has been predicted for decades," Kelley said. "But authors keep writing. Publishers bring out as many new books as ever, and more independent bookstores are opening than closing. Readers still love the experience of browsing through a real bookstore, and the Book Den will remain open to meet the demand."

Noozhawk staff writer Joshua Molina can be reached at jmolina@noozhawk.com.