Eagle Rock Bookstore Faces Relocation After Skyrocketing Rent – Not Alone

A Community’s Struggle Against Rising Rents

A beloved local bookshop in Eagle Rock is facing the threat of closure due to a dramatic increase in rent. READ Books, a cherished mom-and-pop store, has been a fixture in the neighborhood for 19 years, known for its unique collection of used books and its friendly shop dog, Florence. The owners, Jeremy and Debbie Kaplan, have built a strong connection with the community over the years, watching many children grow up and return as college students.

However, the recent sale of the building where they operate has led to a staggering rent hike of more than 130%, pushing the monthly cost to $2,805. This increase was initially announced with only 30 days’ notice, but through research and assistance from Councilmember Ysabel Jurado’s office and pro-bono legal help, the Kaplans were able to secure the 90-day notice period mandated by California Senate Bill 1103. This law requires landlords to give businesses with five or fewer employees 90 days’ notice for rent increases exceeding 10%.

Despite this legal protection, Systems Real Estate, the property management company, has not responded to requests for comment. This lack of communication highlights the challenges small businesses face when dealing with landlords who may not be transparent about their rights.

Understanding the Legal Landscape

Nadia Segura, directing attorney of the Small Business Program at Bet Tzedek, explained that California law does not currently allow for rent control for commercial tenancies. Outside of the protections under SB 1103, small businesses like READ Books have limited options. Segura noted that many tenants are unaware of these protections, leading to situations where they are forced to leave within a month of receiving a rent increase.

Segura mentioned that her organization is witnessing significant rent hikes across the city, particularly in areas affected by major events such as the World Cup and Olympics. She also highlighted the impact of natural disasters, such as wildfires, which have exacerbated the challenges for small businesses.

Bet Tzedek works to advocate for small businesses by engaging with landlords to negotiate longer leases that lock in rents. This effort aims to provide stability for businesses that contribute to the character of neighborhoods like Eagle Rock.

Community Response and Future Steps

The situation at READ Books has sparked a wave of support from the community. After the Kaplans shared their story on social media, many residents expressed their outrage and love for the shop. This outpouring of support has inspired Kaplan to form a coalition of local businesses and activist groups to address the broader issue of displacement.

Kaplan is also reaching out to state officials, including Assemblywoman Jessica Caloza and Senator Maria Durazo, to explore potential legislation that could offer greater protections for small businesses. He hopes to introduce measures such as rent control or a vacancy tax for landlords, which could help prevent similar situations in the future.

Owl Talk, another long-standing business in the same building as READ Books, is also facing a significant rent increase, with some reports indicating a “more than double” rise. This trend underscores the urgent need for systemic solutions to protect small businesses from the pressures of rising costs.

A Legacy Under Threat

When READ Books was founded during the Great Recession, it was a bold move for the Kaplans. They recognized the importance of having a bookstore in their community, especially during a time when many other businesses were struggling. For them, the shop was more than just a business; it was a reflection of their values and a place that brought people together.

Kaplan emphasized the emotional impact of the rent increase, stating that it felt like someone coming in and saying, “We’re gonna over double your rent.” This sentiment resonates with many small business owners who feel vulnerable in the face of rising costs and uncertain futures.

As the Kaplans search for a new location, they remain committed to preserving the essence of their community. Their efforts highlight the resilience of small businesses and the importance of advocating for their survival in an increasingly challenging economic landscape.