Severe market conditions including the high Canadian dollar, the effects of e-commerce and e-book readers, changing space allocations within their largest customers and uncertainty in the international markets all contributed to Fairmount Books Inc’s decision to close its doors. “This is not a bankruptcy but an orderly closing,” said Marty Cutler, president of Fairmount Books Inc. He said the closing will take place over the next few months and that all suppliers will be paid in full and that all employees will be treated fairly.

Fairmount Books opened on June 23, 1983 with the goal of buying and selling quality remainders and publishers overstocks.  “Over the years we have grown, finding new markets and sources of supply all over the world,” Cutler said. “It is with great regret that I am writing to inform you that, after 29 years, Fairmount Books Inc will be closing.”  

The company started as a 2,700 square foot industrial unit, and has grown to occupy 82,000 square feet of warehouse space.  Through this growth, the company incorporated advanced technical solutions to run the business and Cutler added, “This technology afforded us the flexibility to tailor our services to suit our diverse customer base in 35 different countries.”

In a letter sent out Mr. Cutler wrote:

“With an emphasis on honesty and integrity, we have worked hard with our business partners and associates to meet the needs of our customers.  Many relationships have been developed that have been an integral part of the Fairmount Books history and we have had fun along the way.  It’s been an incredible ride.

I am especially proud of the staff at Fairmount Books, both past and present, who have shown a genuine spirit of generosity and caring.  This has been reflected in the remarkable success of our annual “Making It Happen” campaign to raise research funds for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation and through their contributions to the United Way raising a total of $2,900,000.

The book industry has faced many challenges and the Fairmount team has overcome many of them along the way.  Now is the time to recognize the trends within our specialty over which we have little or no control and to take steps that best serve Fairmount Books, our employees and our business partners.