Madeline “Mel” Bolen, founder of Bolen Books, and a pioneer in early entrepreneurship for women in the seventies and eighties has passed away suddenly on Wednesday.
“It is with deep sadness and heartache that we regret to announce the passing of Madeline Bolen. Mel passed away unexpectedly on December 21st surrounded by her family,” read a statement on the companies Facebook page.
Bolen opened her small bookstore in Hillside Shopping Centre in 1975. Following a divorce in 1977 from Pat Bolen, she moved their bookstore to a larger space and ten years later when the mall was expanding she again took a chance and moved once again to a large 5000 square foot space.
In 1996 she made a calculated decision and moved into the current 17,000 square foot space, transforming it into something that she was very proud of, the family said.
The community agreed and supported her, and Bolen Books was awarded the Libris Award twice following this move.
“She believed in her community and their support of the independent businesses. She sat on various boards and committees, and she saw opportunity where others saw failure. She believed firmly in books and the ideas that they could invoke.”
“Married and divorced twice, she met her last love John Smith seven years ago. Together they traveled and had fun and laughed every day. Sadly, John passed three years ago, and she missed him every day after.”
Mel Bolen sold Bolen Books to her daughter Samantha on her retirement in 2010.
“She was thrilled to know that her granddaughter Madeline joined the team at the bookstore in 2014 and that her legacy would continue with them both. “
Bolen Books has set up a book of condolences for customers and friends of its well-known founder to share memories and thoughts with family and staff.
