Auntie’s Bookstore is being sold for the first time in its nearly 40-year history to the owner of Merlyn’s Comic and Games.

Merlyn’s owner John Waite announced Tuesday afternoon he’s buying the revered independent book store from its original owners, Shannon Ahern and Chris O’Harra.

“Recently Chris hoped to pass Auntie’s on to someone that would treat it with the love and respect it deserves,” Waite said in a news release. “I am excited to take on the legacy of Auntie’s, and build it into a 21st century bookstore for Spokane.”

Waite said the deal will take effect Wednesday, and he plans to retain Auntie’s current staff. The store at 402 W. Main Ave. includes a games and gifts section in addition to shrinking rows of book shelves.

“While times are tough with Internet competition, I think of bookstores as cultural and creative centers for our community,” Waite said. “I want Auntie’s and Merlyn’s to be places to dream about, create and explore the universe”/SR.

Question: How many of you are fans of Auntie's Bookstore?