After a fundraising rally by customers, the four-decade old, independent bookstore, Book People, is holding a grand reopening on Saturday, Aug. 18 at 536 Granite Ave. in the near West End.

According to a press release, Book People founder Ruth Erb and new owner David Shuman are hosting a day of activities, stories and refreshments to welcome customers back.

“At first it was hard to watch my beloved shop get turned upside down during the renovations. But I’m thrilled with the results,” Erb says in the release. “And I’m especially happy that David is carrying on my vision as a place where people who love books can share their passion.”

The new store specializes in hard-to-find titles and offers new and used books, as well as a kid’s corner of children’s literature. The release noted that it offers “one of Richmond’s largest selections of science fiction and fantasy books.”

Book People is one of the few independent shops that are still drawing loyal customers in Richmond.