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Bards Alley Bookshop is preparing to leave its longtime leased storefront after owner Jennifer Morrow purchased a nearby historic building for $1.5 million.

The independent bookstore plans to move from 110 Church Street NW to 103 Church Street NE, only about a two-minute walk away. Morrow said remaining on historic Church Street was her top priority because of its concentration of restaurants and locally owned shops, pedestrian-friendly setting and access from the W&OD Trail.

Morrow took possession of the building on Feb. 5. Plans remain preliminary, but the bookstore is tentatively expected to open there next fall or winter.

The 1,686-square-foot building, located at Church and Center streets, was constructed around 1900. It became available after John Edwards Hair Design closed in mid-January following owner John Kurcina’s retirement. The salon had occupied the property for 55 years.

Renovations are planned, although their scope has not yet been determined. Morrow said preserving the building’s history was important to her.

The new location will give Bards Alley private customer parking and dedicated areas for book clubs, meetings and other events. Those gatherings currently take place on the sales floor.

Behind the scenes, the property will also provide a receiving room, office space and storage for excess inventory—practical additions that Morrow said will significantly improve the store’s operations.

Bards Alley opened in 2017 and sells books for children and adults, along with stationery, plush toys and other gifts. It has also developed into a community gathering place through author talks, book clubs and other programs.

Vienna Economic Development Director Nicole Toulouse said Morrow has created more than a bookstore, describing Bards Alley as a community hub that connects people through stories and events.