McKay’s bookstore in Knoxville is closing after 40 years in business as the owner sells the property.
The store’s last day open on Papermill Drive will be May 3. The store is no longer buying used items from customers, according to its website about the closure.
“I have been honored to be a member of the Knoxville community for the past four decades. When you buy, sell, or trade with us, you help keep books and media on the shelves of people who appreciate it, and we greatly appreciate your support!” the statement said.
Founded in North Carolina in 1974 and in Knoxville since 1985, McKay’s has attracted a loyal fan base with a variety of bargains on used merchandise, from anime to movies to collectibles.
Other McKay stores in the Southeast will remain open: Chattanooga and Nashville, as well as Winston-Salem and Mebane, North Carolina. The store leaves open the possibility of finding a new home in Knoxville in the future.
“McKay is always changing and growing, and we are taking time to evaluate our next steps. Please stay tuned for further announcements,” the website states.
What you need to know if you’re planning to shop at Knoxville McKay’s
For now, the Knoxville store’s hours will remain unchanged. The website says there are no plans for large-scale closed sales, but that could change.
Those with credit slips can use them at other McKay stores before or after the last day (credit slips are a popular payment method for items sold at stores).
Customers who have already delivered their goods can collect their payment during store opening hours.
McKay sale tops $4 million
A major Knoxville hotel developer paid the owners of McKay’s Bookstore $4.25 million for the bookstore and adjacent parking lot, according to Knox County records.
Nick Patel of Turkey Creek Hospitality, which owns at least 10 hotels in Knox and Sevier counties, agreed to the deal on Feb. 23. Patel also owns the used car park next to the Mackay Hotel. He purchased the property in 2023 for $2.4 million.
McKay’s property is divided into two lots, the lower parking lot and the land where the large building sits.
In total, McKay’s properties are assessed at $3.4 million, according to county records.
This article originally appeared in the Knoxville News Sentinel: McKay’s used bookstore in Knoxville is closing — what we know
