Shoppers React to Barnes & Noble's Closing

Restonians will soon be without a bookstore, news that is not sitting well with shoppers who frequent Barnes & Noble.

The store at Reston's Spectrum Center Barnes & Noble officials said on Tuesday. The Container Store will open in that spot later in 2013, said a spokesman for Lerner Enterprises, which owns the shopping center.

Barnes & Noble said it wanted to stay, but could not reach a lease agreement with Lerner.

In comments on Reston Patch and on Reston Patch's Facebook page, book lovers voiced their opinion on the change.

"I love bookstores and specifically B&N. I cherish those days especially in winter when I can go there and enjoy quiet time thumbing through books, magazines, and cards while sipping my coffee," said one reader.

Said another: "I've made many memories there with my kids! The staff was always so kind and it was a great way to get kids interested in books at a young age."

Meanwhile, a "Save the Reston Barnes & Noble" petition has been started. Organizers are hoping that a grassroots effort - much like the Rescue Reston group that is advocating for Reston National Golf Course to stay as open space despite an inquiry about development from the course's owner - will spark change, even though a longterm lease has already been signed by The Container Store.

To access the petition, click here.

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