Limestone bookseller gets Masonic site

 

Store, lodge to share quarters

     LIMESTONE — A historic building is on its way to being repurposed.

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File photo/2015

The Limestone Masonic Lodge building formerly owned by the Town of Limestone, has been acquired by Manaus Books, LLC. Owners Brian and Julie Weston plan to turn it into a used book store, among other attractions.  

     Manaus Books, LLC, purveyor of antique, vintage, and collectible books and authorized Brodart reseller, has acquired the historic Masonic Lodge Building at 30 Main Street in Limestone.

     Owners Brian and Julie Weston of Limestone requested the building from the Masonic Building Association in late March, and the Association voted on April 12 to donate the building, as is, to the Westons in exchange for a permanent lease agreement that will allow the Limestone Masons to return to the temple facilities on the second floor.

     Plans for the building include a used book store, a coffee shop and a community center, which will offer programs for all ages, children to senior citizens.

     “This is an important step forward for Limestone,” said Brian Weston. “It is our hope that by revitalizing this impressive, historic structure, Limestone itself will begin to feel more confident about its future.”

 

     Julie Weston added, “Despite Limestone’s difficulties over the past decades, we are optimistic and feel that with a bit of effort, it can become a thriving community once again.”