Historic bookshop in St Andrews closes as owner retires, 144 years after the shop was first opened by her great-great-grandfather

A historic bookstore will close 144 years after it was opened by the current owner’s great-great-grandfather.

J&G Innes Ltd has been in business since 1879 when it was opened by brothers George and John Innes in St Andrews, Fife, a university town whose alumni include members of the British Royal Family, including Prince William.

It will close at Hogmanay after the current owner, Jude Innes, retires. Jude Innes joined the family business in 1996 and has been in charge of the store since 2012.

She has introduced many well-received events during her career, including book launches and art exhibitions, and a stall at a poetry festival every year for over a decade.

“I ran the business with my mother for many happy years until I took over around 2012,” says Jude.

Jude Innes retires on December 31 and closes J&G Innes, a historic bookshop in St Andrews

‘I introduced the first floor gallery and the introduction of art supplies, paintings and prints, which was very successful. We also started specializing in Scottish children’s books.

“I think what I will miss most is the company of my team. I have had the privilege of working with many talented and witty people who I will miss terribly.

‘The relationship we have built with our regular customers is something very special.’

Known in St Andrews as the ‘Citizen Shop’, the South Street bookshop has become a family favorite over the years, selling books, stationery and art supplies to locals, students and tourists.

Jude has been overwhelmed by the support from regulars and tourists alike since announcing the store’s closure – and is grateful for the well wishes both in person and on social media.

Jude said she was now looking forward to spending more time with her husband and working on her art during her retirement

Jude, seen here in J&G Innes, said she has been overwhelmed by the support from the bookshop’s customers since she announced it was closing

George and John Innes, who opened the J&G Innes bookshop in 1879

“The well wishes we have received since the news broke have been very humbling,” Jude said.

‘I’ve had so many people tell me they’ve worked for J&G Innes Ltd over the years – it’s really amazing.

“Without them and their loyalty, and our fantastic customers, we wouldn’t be here today.

Jude said she was looking forward to spending more time with her husband and working on her art.

Reactions from locals poured in on social media, with many sharing their childhood memories of visiting the store.

One holidaymaker on Facebook described the shop as ‘one of the must-go places on holidays in Fife when my sons were at primary school – their children’s section was great.’

Another commenter described “spending hours there as a child,” while another claimed their nine-year-old son was “devastated” by the news.