National bookstore chain reopens Aiken location

When Lance Danko needs stress relief, he goes book shopping, which is why he was happy when Books-A-Million reopened in Aiken late last week.

Danko, administrator for Augusta University Health Imaging, and his wife have already visited the new store located at 1650 Richland Ave. West, Suite 195 near Rose’s and Hibbett Sports in the Kalmia Plaza shopping center.

“It’s one of the few bookstores left besides Barnes & Noble in Augusta where you can really go in and look around,” he said.

Books-A-Million had a store in the Aiken Mall until July 7, 2021, when the company closed it to find a new location. Several years ago, the company also had a store located at 2834 Washington Road in Augusta, which was replaced by 2nd & Charles. Both stores are owned and operated by the same parent company.

Founded in 1917 as a newsstand in Florence, Ala., the company now operates about 260 locations throughout much of the United States.

Danko and his wife are members of the store’s Millionaire’s Club, which allows them to receive discounts and coupons. He said the new store is smaller than the former Aiken location and doesn’t include a Joe Muggs Coffee shop.

“It’s scaled-down significantly, but it’s nice and clean,” Danko said.

The store is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, visit booksamillion.com or call 803-679-2444.

Books-A-Million is holding a Grand Opening event this Saturday.