Riley's Reads is Closing Its Doors

Many Island retail stores come and go. Surviving on a short season of sales is tough in any market, but especially so on an Island where the cost of living is as high as it is here on Martha’s Vineyard. But when one of those stores that has weathered a few years and has grown some good roots has to close its doors, it is painful for the whole community.

The announcement that bookstore, tucked in the alley behind Main Street in Vineyard Haven, was closing after nearly eight years came as a shock to many.

Known for its impeccable selection of kids’ books—from infant to young adult—many parents have relied on this store and its knowledgeable owner, Zoe Pechter, for suggestions and selections they know their kids will love.

“I had a really wonderful kids bookstore growing up and always dreamed of owning my own bookstore,” said Pechter, who named the store after her beloved cocker spaniel Riley. She moved to the Island after college and decided to give it a try. Since then, it’s been a whirlwind of books and memories, including some great book clubs and Harry Potter parties. And, Pechter’s favorite, “watching kids read to their parents or to Riley.”

As to why Pechter has decided to close the store, the answer is two-fold. “There are definite economic reasons for closing,” she said. “The last two years have been especially hard to be in the retail book business. Stores like Borders and mine are closing. But I am closing because I'm personally ready to move on to other things. I love kids and books and am ready to take that passion elsewhere.”

Elsewhere means heading back to school to get a Masters’ degree in literature so that she can be a children’s librarian. “What else does one do with a head full of kids' books?” said Pechter. “I've gotten a lot of inspiration from the folks at the and being involved there.” Asked if she thinks opening another kids' bookstore is in her future, Pechter said, “Riley's Reads is probably my first and only bookstore, but who knows?”

In the meantime, she’s looking forward to where her next moves will take her. “I’m so excited to go to school and write about kids books,” she said.

Currently everything—and that means everything, from the shelves to the fixtures—is on sale at Riley’s Reads and all books and toys are 40 percent off. And excitement aside, Pechter has a lot to say goodbye to. “I will miss all my summer friends that come back every year who are so excited to see the bookstore and Riley and pick out summer books— it was a real highlight for me to watch everyone grow.”