Cellar Door Books in Riverside must move after losing its lease
A few words in writing struck the owner of Riverside’s independent bookstore like a body blow. Not a line in a powerful novel or a searing nonfiction tome, but an email from the landlord. Subject line: “Notice of lease termination.” Cellar Door Books had until Feb. 28 to vacate the premises of Canyon Crest Towne Centre, its home for 10 years. Say it ain’t so, Canyon Crest! Owner Linda Sherman-Nurick was at home Tuesday night when she read the email in horror. (Never open work email at night. No good can come of it.) Word began spreading Wednesday — Cati Porter of the literary nonprofit Inlandia messaged me that night — and became amplified on Thursday when Cellar Door posted the news to social media. The books community is up in arms. Some questioned whether the store’s liberal politics, quarterly Drag Queen Storytime and masking policies led to the decision. Rep. Mark Takano, D-Riverside, visited Friday to show his support. I’m disheartened to learn of the eviction notice for Cellar Door Books and its potential connection to the hosting of Drag Queen Story hour. Linda