ROLLING STONES’ BASS PLAYER BILL WYMAN’S MEMORABLE VISIT TO BORDERS BOOK STORE IN PHILADELPHIA (9/4/2001)

Rolling Stone Bill Wyman Borders Bookstore Philadelphia

On Tuesday, September 4, Bill Wyman of the Rolling Stones attended a book signing event at Borders book store, at 17th & Walnut Streets. Exactly one week later, the 9/11 attacks occurred. Wyman was promoting his new book "Blues Odyssey." Last week, Borders, which moved to Broad & Chestnut Streets, went out of business and closed shop, while the "Fat Lady" browsed her last aisle. © ROGER BARONE 2001

ROLLING STONE BILL WYMAN: BORDERS BOOK STORE (September 4, 2010)

In tribute to the closing of the Philadelphia Borders Bookstore, I present this photo of Bill Wyman’s visit to the popular store at 17th & Walnut Street (it’s original location). Many of the industry’s top authors appeared there including David McCullough, Calvin Trillin, Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Wyman, Hillary Clinton and Ozzie. In the early days, Borders was one of the city’s hidden treasures that few people knew about. I was  a regular and bought lots of great books from the overstock bargain bins.

As the years passed, the crowds grew bigger, the lines longer and it became a less personal experience to shop and attend events. Eventually, a decision was made to move to a larger location. Borders was never the same. Earlier this year, Borders declared bankruptcy, hoping to restructure the management. It failed; Borders is gone.

~ by photosfromphilly on May 29, 2011.

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