Munro’s Books Welcomes New Ownership Team After Staff Transition

Munro’s Books, Victoria’s oldest bookstore, has entered a new chapter in its ownership structure. Recently, four long-term staff members joined the ownership group, marking a significant transition for the iconic establishment. This change follows the retirement of three previous owners who had taken over in 2014.

Jessica Walker, the managing partner, expressed her commitment to maintaining the store’s legacy by involving a new group of booksellers in its ownership. The new co-owners include store managers Jessica Paul and Kirsten Larmon, senior buyer Sarah Mead-Willis, and controller Megan Ames. Collectively, they bring nearly 60 years of experience with Munro’s Books and have been part of the management team for several years.

In an interview with Victoria News, Walker, who has dedicated 25 years to the bookstore, shared her enthusiasm for the new partnership. She stated, “It’s been a dream. I used to come to Munro’s when I was a little kid. And I never ever imagined that I would one day get to own the bookstore.” Walker acknowledged the importance of this opportunity for her team, noting how rewarding it is to extend such an experience to her colleagues.

New Owners with Fresh Perspectives

Larmon, who has been with Munro’s since 2005, will oversee the children’s section. She described her new role as unexpected but recognized the responsibility it carries. Larmon aims to enhance the working environment for employees and strengthen community ties.

Mead-Willis, the head buyer since 2014, expressed her excitement about her new responsibilities. She emphasized her commitment to ensuring the store’s continued success by curating a selection of books that are both unique and popular among readers. “What I would like to do is just ensure the continued success of the store by continuing to stock books that you can’t find anywhere else,” she explained.

Ames, who first joined Munro’s in 2002 and returned in 2020, reflected on the emotional weight of the new leadership role. “Moving the store to its next chapter is definitely overwhelming. And happy tears were shed,” she noted. Ames aims to maintain the bookstore’s traditions while fostering a positive workplace for all employees.

Paul, who has been with the store since 2007, acknowledged the challenges that come with their new positions. “It’s a lot to take on and to make sure that we’re continuing on the same path and making sure that we’re providing both an excellent workplace and an excellent community for the readers in Victoria,” she said.

Future Plans and Community Engagement

The new ownership group has shared a vision for the future, focusing on continuity and maintaining the store’s welcoming atmosphere. “When people come in, we want the experience to remain the same. We want someone who returns in 20 years to say, ‘Oh, it feels the same. I’m so glad to be back,’” Walker said. They are also considering renovations, including updates to shelving and lighting.

The team recognizes the importance of personal connections with their customers, many of whom have been regulars for years. Walker noted the significance of knowing customers by name, stating, “Customers really appreciate having a connection to a place where you walk in, and you don’t have to give your name or phone number because we already know them.”

The rise of younger readers, particularly from Gen Z and Gen Alpha, has been partly fueled by social media trends such as BookTok and Bookstagram. Mead-Willis remarked on this trend, saying, “Books are cool, and it’s really encouraging and heartening to see younger people shopping for books and being passionate about books.”

Founded in 1963 by Jim Munro and Nobel laureate Alice Munro, Munro’s Books has built a reputation for its diverse selection and historic architecture. With this new leadership team, the bookstore aims to continue its legacy as a beloved fixture in Victoria’s literary community.