Two years after saving the venerable Curiosity House bookstore from an uncertain future, owner Ralph Hicks has announced it’s time for him to move on.

In an email sent out to friends and supporters this week, Hicks said he had accomplished his objectives of relocating the bookstore, keeping it alive and “building it into a worthwhile centre of intelligent activity in the community.” It’s now time, he said, for a new owner to come in with some “new ideas and new energy.”

Bookstore manager Jenn Hubbs, who Hicks credits with much of the work that has gone into the revitalization, recently accepted a position with Hatchette Book Group, and Hicks said her imminent departure (she leaves next week, though she has promised to stay involved in some capacity) prompted him to reflect on his and the store’s future.

“I would therefore be interested in talking to anyone who loves books and loves Creemore and could be interested in buying this lovely little enterprise,” said Hicks.

Anyone whose “curiosity” has been piqued can reach Hicks at ralph@ralphhicks.ca.