Black-owned bookstore in Gastonia closing after nearly three decades

GASTONIA, N.C. — One of the last bookstores in Gastonia is shutting its doors after nearly three decades.

For 28 years, Your Christian Book Store was bustling with people buying books, choir robes, music, and paintings.

Owner Carretta McLean said in many ways her store couldn’t keep up with the times.

The 87-year-old says closing the store wasn’t an easy decision, but business is down by 35%.

“I don’t have the patience and the time I had 28 years ago,” McLean said. “This last chapter of my life, I don’t want to do this. I want to do something else.”

>> In the video at the top of this page, Channel 9′s Ken Lemmon talks to McLean about her decision and how she’s staying positive.

(VIDEO: Gus’ Sir Beef in east Charlotte closes after over 50 years of business)

Gus’ Sir Beef in east Charlotte closes after over 50 years of business

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