Regret and a touch of literary romance fill the air in Audubon Park as Joybird Books closes shop and makes way for a new chapter. The specialized bookstore, Joybird, announced its final days of operation would conclude on October 26th, holding the line with the local favorite Zombietoberfest, as per their social media declaration. The store, nestled on Corrine Drive, has been a cultural staple serving the literary and artistic community for the past three years, offering not just books but a place for workshops, art events, and even some experimental music shows, according to OrlandoWeekly.

When one chapter ends, another begins. The former Joybird Books location won't stay empty for long—New Romantics bookstore is moving in. Known for popping up across Central Florida, New Romantics plans to settle in Audubon Park. Joybird's owner, Andrew Walker, announced on Instagram that New Romantics will take over after Zombietoberfest day.

Jane Rodriguez, the entrepreneurial spirit behind the New Romantics, appears to understand patrons' sentimental attachment to previous stores' community roles and intends to carry forward with certain legacies. As mentioned in an article from Your Community Paper, Rodriguez said, “The New Romantics is so excited to be part of the Audubon Park small-business community and continuing to do what we do best, which is uplift the stories we love to read and celebrate romance!” In promising homage, some features like the Orlando Community Art Supply Closet will remain a resource for local artists and creatives.