For over 45 years BookHampton has been one of the go-to bookstores in the Hamptons, but in October owner Charline Spektor delivered some sad news to fans when she declared she was starting a “new chapter” in her life and was looking for a few “white knights” to take over ownership of the beloved Hamptons bookstores.
That call has been answered for the Southampton location (16 Hampton Road, Southampton). On Tuesday, November 17th, BookHampton announced that its Southampton store has been acquired by Daniel Hirsch and Greg Harris, two loyal, former BookHampton employees, who decided to take on the challenge. “It’s absolutely perfect,” said Spektor.
To facilitate the deal, the East End stores had to be separated. “While we are now formally two separate bookstores, the idea that two of our booksellers would become the heirs to the BookHampton legacy is really gratifying,” explained Spektor. Hirsch and Harris’ new venture will operate as Southampton Books.
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Alec Baldwin and Hilaria Baldwin are taking part in a holiday weekend reading at the East Hampton location. (Photo: Clint Spaulding/PatrickMcMullan.com) |
As for the East Hampton store (41 Main Street, East Hampton), it remains open, but Spektor is still searching for one more savior. “BookHampton in East Hampton continues, and we are excited at the prospect of a new owner being announced shortly,” she said. “Stay tuned…”
On Friday, November 27th at 3 p.m., longtime supporter Alec Baldwin and Hilaria Baldwin will visit the East Hampton store for a special Thanksgiving weekend reading. The duo will charm attendees with Charles Dickens’ “Oliver Twist,” read in English by Alec and Spanish by Hilaria.
