Publisher, bookstore turning page at new location

Big changes are underway for Hilo publisher and printer Petroglyph Press and its subsidiary, Basically Books.

After almost 55 years in downtown Hilo, the businesses are relocating 1 1/2 miles away to 1672 Kamehameha Ave., near Ken’s House of Pancakes and Banyan Drive. The new space most recently was occupied by Big Island Trading Co., in the former Volvo dealership. The highly visible location has abundant free parking and a covered patio.

“We were offered a golden opportunity we couldn’t pass up — a bright, prominent location with lots of parking,” said David Reed, president of the family business and co-owner with his wife, Christine. “Our customers will love this new location.

Reed said the businesses will be closed through Friday, then everyone is invited to their first event in the new location Saturday, celebrating the best-selling children’s books, “Where’s Waldo?” with prizes, photographs and fun.

“We appreciate the support of our downtown Hilo friends and neighbors through the years and we will continue to be downtown merchants at heart,” Christine Reed said. “People can stop by to pick up a ‘Moving Sucks’ lollipop and a discount coupon for August in our new location.”

Although the physical and mailing addresses will change, phone numbers, email addresses and website addresses will remain the same.

Petroglyph Press was founded in 1962 by Stephen and Frances Reed as a small printing and publishing company. David Reed stepped up to manage the business in 1974 when his parents retired. Upon their marriage in 1976, Christine became a partner. Together they have expanded and diversified the company with the establishment of Basically Books in 1985. The companies have been at their current location for the past 20 years. In September, Petroglyph Press will celebrate 55 years of business in Hilo.

For more information, visit www.PetroglyphPress.com or www.BasicallyBooks.com.