Sparta Books is for sale

Sparta - A much-loved bookstore in the middle of the Township is going to be changing ownership. Donna Fell has owned Sparta Books for 12 years, and while she emphasizes, "we are not closing our doors," she has decided it is time to sell Sparta Books and experience other adventures.
The cozy, colorful, cheerful store has been an integral part of the community since 1965, when a guidance counselor and high school teacher together opened the shop on Sparta Avenue. In an age of ever-expanding online entertainment for kids, keeping the bookstore viable has been more challenging than in days gone by. But Fell has stood up to the challenge well and sees readership and clientel growing, rather than dwindling.
"No one lives forever, and it is time for my husband and I to look to the future," she said. "That future includes travel, reading, relaxation, grandkids, and yes, visiting independent bookstores throught the U.S. and the world."
Sparta Books, considered an independent book store, offers many programs and events for readers young and old alike. They have author book signing events, weekly story hour for young children, boys and girls book clubs, monthly Lego night, special events for children during the holidays and the very popular “Where’s Waldo” summer program. Sparta parents know they can get their summer reading books right in town.
Sparta Books offers a variety of fiction and non-fiction best sellers, travel reading for the world traveler, coffee table picture books and many popular children’s titles. They have a good variety of “sidelines” such as Alex and Ani Jewelry, Melissa and Doug children’s toys the Natural Life gift item line and Love Pop branded greeting cards. They also carry crafts and jewelry from local vendors and local artists.
Sparta Books is deeply rooted in the community as well. They have contributed to school libraries, Tricky Tray fundraisers, local student organizations and sports teams. They have arranged more than 30 authors’ visits to local schools and more than 40 local author book signing events. For the past four years, they have arranged celebrity author book signings as a way for the Newton Hospital to raise funds during the annual Wine and Roses fundraising event.
“I’m not in a rush to sell the store," Fell said. "I want to make sure the new owner, whomever that might be, is successful as possible. I intend to offer my assistance after they take over to coach them and guide them through the transition. It’s not easy running a small business today so anything I can do to assist in the new Owner’s success will only benefit them and the community as a whole. The last thing I want to see is another empty store front in Sparta”, said Fell.
Inquiries can be made to Donna Fell at 973-809-8165 or by e-mail to donnafell@embarqmail.com.