WINTER GARDEN, Fla. – Downtown Winter Garden is known for its unique charm and locally owned small businesses. But in recent weeks, several businesses have announced closures — and the changes appear to be continuing.
News 6 has reported on multiple small businesses shutting their doors in the area. Now, another well-known shop says it will soon be closing as well — but the reason, while different, is still heartbreaking for loyal customers.
Inside Writer’s Block Bookstore, customers browse shelves searching for their next read, many saying supporting small businesses is important to them.
“I really believe in supporting small businesses,” one shopper said.
But after five years in downtown Winter Garden, the charming bookstore announced it will close next month.
“I’d like to see them flourish. And when I see them get canceled like this, it just makes me really sad,” another customer said.
According to the store, its lease is ending and the rent would nearly triple — a cost the business says it cannot afford. The owner said the increase is happening despite there not yet being a new landlord.
Customers say the closure is part of a troubling pattern.
“We’ve experienced a lot of loss in Winter Garden — several of my favorite places,” another resident said. “I just heard about this one a day or two ago, and it just makes me really sad.”
As downtown Winter Garden has become a hot real estate market, several small businesses have closed after their buildings were purchased by new landlords — raising concerns about what the future could hold for the once distinctly small-town downtown district.
“I know it’s seen a lot of changes with the small businesses. I’m nervous about it,” one resident said.
For many shoppers, the bookstore represents more than just a place to buy a book — it’s part of the community’s character.
“They’re good people. They’re hardworking people, honest people,” one supporter said.
The warm and inviting space has also attracted tourists visiting from out of state, many saying locally owned bookstores offer something bigger retailers cannot.
“It’s sad because we have mom-and-pop bookstores around us, and they’re better than bigger ones,” another shopper said.
According to Sunbiz, the building that houses the bookstore is owned by JKSH Properties LLC. News 6 has reached out to the company for comment.
For now, loyal customers say they hope whatever comes next for downtown Winter Garden doesn’t dramatically change what has made the area special.
“Please remember this is a small town, and we like our small businesses here,” one resident said.
The owner states they are exploring other options to continue serving customers who share a passion for books.