Book lovers in Wayne will soon have a new place to browse, shop and grab a cup of coffee.
Barnes & Noble is putting the finishing touches on its newest New Jersey location along Route 23, taking over the former Gary’s Wine & Marketplace space.
Store manager Richard Oswald says excitement in the community has been building, adding that residents have been looking forward to having a bookstore closer to home.
The new location will feature a wide selection of books, toys, games and gifts, along with a café serving Starbucks beverages, sandwiches and sweets.
Oswald says the goal is to make each Barnes & Noble location reflect the community it serves. The store plans to adjust its displays and selections as it gets to know what Wayne customers are looking for.
Despite the growth of digital reading, Oswald says there’s still something special about browsing through shelves and holding a physical book.
The store is set to officially open on Nov. 18 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and events featuring local authors.
The new Wayne location will be Barnes & Noble’s third store in Passaic County.