Tradition at Schrannenplatz: The Carl Mayr bookstore celebrates 244 years
Tradition at Schrannenplatz: The Carl Mayr bookstore celebrates 244 years
in Amberg, the bookstore and book printing company Carl Mayr, which has existed since the 18th century, is one of the oldest companies in the city. The owner, Rosemarie Mayr, leads the business in the fourth Generation and ensures that the tradition of book trade in the region remains alive. This historical bookstore is not just a place for books, but at the same time part of Amberg's cultural identity.
The roots of the company go back to 1780, and since then the bookstore has adapted to the challenges and changes in the book market. The fact that it remains to this day is a sign of durability and passion with which Rosemarie Mayr and her team run the company. In times of digitization in which many book stores had to be closed, Carl Mayr not only offers a wide selection of new releases, but also an interesting collection of classic cars and rarities.
The development of book trade
The bookstore has experienced many changes over the centuries. Starting as a print shop, it developed into a business in the 19th century that not only printed books, but also sold. In the early years, the focus was on the regional market. Various social upheavals, including world wars and economic crises, demanded adaptability and innovation spirit from the owners.
A remarkable aspect of the bookstore is its ability to combine tradition with modern requirements. While customers are looking for new titles and current bestsellers, a growing number of readers also appreciates personal support and direct contact that local booksellers can offer. The bookstore in Amberg not only remains a point of sale, but also a meeting point for book lovers who want to browse and want to exchange ideas.
The 3000 square meter sales area offers a variety of genres and authors and is known for regularly organizing readings and events. It is remarkable how the bookstore promotes the cultural dialogue within the city and serves as a platform for local authors and artists.
Another interesting point is the technical development that the bookstore has implemented. In order to be able to compete with the large online providers, she has expanded her online sales and offers its customers the opportunity to conveniently order books online and collect them in the branch. This combination of physical and digital offer shows how important it is for established booksellers to respond to the needs of your customers.
A look into the future
The challenges with which the book trade is confronted today are diverse. Pandemic has changed the reading behavior of many people, and the need for digital access to information and entertainment has grown. Nevertheless, the Carl Mayr bookstore remains confident and has plans to continue to be an important part of cultural life in Amberg.
The vision of Rosemarie Mayr is clear: she wants to continue the bookstore in the tradition of her ancestors and at the same time find new ways to inspire the younger generation for books. Whether through school cooperation, workshops or by creating a cozy place of reading - the goal remains to make the book partly in part of everyday life.
The history of the bookstore and book printing Carl Mayr is not only the story of a “simple” business, but a significant part of the cultural heritage of a city and a symbol of the love of literature, which can also be preserved in difficult times. In a world that is constantly changing, the bookstore remains a place of encounter, knowledge and change.
Amberg 26.05.2024
Trinity 12.08.2024