By Diane Alter

London, England, United Kingdom

When Anna Scott (Julia Roberts) asked William (Hugh Grant) if she could stay for a while in one of the most memorable scenes of the hit Hollywood film Notting Hill, William answered "You can stay forever." But, the bookstore which William owned in the movies, and was the inspiration behind the romantic comedy, won't be around forever. It is set to close after three decades in business.

The Travel Bookstore, one of Britain's most memorable shops and also one of London's most popular tourists attractions, is set to close in two weeks.

However, a group of poets and writers have banded together in an effort to save the iconic book store from closing. Alec Baldwin, who played Julia Roberts' boyfriend in the film even joined the crusade. The actor tweeted on Tuesday, "Save the Travel Book Shop."

The 1999 film Notting Hill was well received by critics and was the highest grossing film that year. It also received a BAFTA and several other awards.

The Travel Bookstore was founded in 1979 and is being closed by its owner for the past 25 years, Simon Gaul. He made the decision to shutter the store after his children showed no interest in taking over the business.

A going out a business sale will begin on Aug. 22 to the disappointment of many.

 

Available at Amazon.com:

Aftermath: Following the Bloodshed of America's Wars in the Muslim World

Displacement and Dispossession in the Modern Middle East (The Contemporary Middle East)

Enemies of Intelligence

The End of History and the Last Man

The Clash of Civilizations and the Remaking of World Order

The Tragedy of Great Power Politics

World - Famous London Bookstore to Close | Global Viewpoint