In the 1970s, entrepreneur Anne Tryon Adams opened her first of three used bookstores in Westborough, MA called ''''ANNIE'S BOOK SWAP''''. By 1980, requests were coming from customers who wanted their own bookstore in their area.
Thus, the franchise corporation was formed and by the end of 1981, Ms. Adams had sold twelve franchises throughout New England. Around 1984, the name was altered to ''''ANNIE'S BOOK STOP'''' and stores were selling new books and merchandise as well as the proverbial used books. Anne's motto was: ''''I gave a Saks Fifth Avenue look to a bargain basement business.''''
By the end of the 1980s, franchise stores had grown to seventy strong, as far south as Florida and west to California. However, in 1990, the franchise corporation suffered financial problems and landed in the bankruptcy court. But a strong Owners Association bought the trade name and trademarks and continued with business as usual.
Today, due to widespread difficulties in the book industry, the Annie's Book Stop numbers have shrunk, but those stores still in business continue to carry on the tradition of providing outstanding customer service. Please click on ''''LOCATIONS'''' for the store nearest you.
Anyone interested in owning an Annie's Book Stop should contact individual stores for possible locations for sale.
We sell used books via credit and cash. We also do special orders and have new books. We also have insents that smell really good.