Independent bookseller San Antone Books closes after only five months in operation

After being in operation fewer than five months, independent bookseller San Antone Books has already closed down.

The shop, located next to Gravves Coffee at 2102 McCullough Ave., launched in February with a wide selection for such a small store. Its inventory ranged from poetry, literary classics and Texas authors to horror novels, children’s books and much more.

Despite today’s challenging environment for independent bookstores, owners Alberto and Valentina Bisi were hopeful their personal touch and curation would help the business stand out.

However, the couple revealed over the weekend that they plan to return to their native Italy to be closer to family. Bisi and his wife, who work in publishing, will continue a life surrounded by literature — though this chapter has closed.

“It has been a great adventure, we met wonderful people,” read the statement on the bookstore’s Instagram. “Thank you for your support and for your warm welcome. Farewell.”

Comments have been disabled on the bookstore’s account, leaving the announcement to stand alone with no additional context for the sudden closure. The Bisis didn’t respond to the Current’s request for comment by press time.

A quick visit to the store on Monday revealed its inventory of books was still inside, though the door was locked and the lights turned off.

Workers at Gravves Coffee didn’t know anything more about the family’s sudden departure but said they’ll miss having the book store as neighbors.

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This article appears in Jul 23 – Aug 6, 2025.