Chapter 2 Books in Hudson, Wis., which has been a friend of writers and readers for many years, hosting events and story time and writing workshops as well as selling all the latest national and regional titles (in print and in Kobo), has lost its lease and is almost certain to close.

Owners Brian and Sue Roegge of St. Paul have tried to find other space in Hudson's little downtown, but their last effort--Tuesday night--came up short. "I think we're done," a deeply discouraged Sue Roegge said in an e-mail. Even presenting the potential new landlord with a petition signed by more than 300 people who want the bookstore to remain in Hudson made no difference. "Goodbye, bookstore," Roegge said. "It's hard to think positive."

To show their gratitude to customers and authors, the store will host an author appreciation day on Saturday. Between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., more than 15 local writers will come by the store to sign books, chat with customers and say goodbye to the Roegges. "We invited nearly every author who has ever been in the store," Roegge said. Some, she noted, are regional, some are national best-sellers, "and some are both!"

A partial list includes William Kent Krueger, David Housewright, Kate Hopper, Sarah Stonich, Barbara Deese, Susan Sims Moody, and many others. A full list is on the store's website here.

Chapter 2 Books is at 422 2nd St. in Hudson.