Strand Bookstore Becomes Landmark Despite Owner's Opposition

NEW YORK, NY — The Strand Bookstore has officially entered a new chapter in its long and illustrious history as its building was among seven in New York City to be granted landmark status Tuesday, June 11.

But the classification for the building residing at Broadway and E. 12th St was handed down despite the wishes of the store's owner.

"The Strand Book Store has officially been designated a landmark by the Landmarks Preservation Commission," according to a tweet from the bookstore's official Twitter account. "Although this is not the outcome we hoped for, we'll continue to serve our customers as we have robustly for 92 years. Thank you for your support along the way."

The status controls designs and materials used when doing repairs and renovations on the building, and can add expense and red tape when changes are made.

"This was unfair from the start. We are fighting this at the grassroots level. We need your support," said Strand Owner Nancy Bass Wyden at a press conference Tuesday.

The announcement comes after a months-long campaign to avoid the landmark designation, which included gathering some 6,000 signatures.

The 11 story store building was designed by William H. Birkmire in 1902, according to the New York Post.

"Landmarking our building will only make it harder for us to survive and pass our treasured family-owned business to our children, and hopefully to theirs," she testified.

To view the official NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission report on the landmarking of the Strand Building, click here.