ANN ARBOR (AP) -- State officials are reacting to the news that Borders could start closing its 399 remaining stores as early as Friday. This includes the Borders located in Traverse City.
The office of Michigan's governor says the closing of the Ann Arbor-based Borders book chain marks the end of an important piece of Michigan history and is a sign of the state of the publishing industry, not Michigan's business climate.
Gov. Rick Snyder is a former Ann Arbor businessman who was elected as a Republican in November. AnnArbor.com says about 450 of Borders' 10,700 employees work in Ann Arbor. Snyder spokeswoman Geralyn Lasher says the administration will "want to look closely from the jobs perspective of people in the state."
Borders Group is seeking court approval to liquidate its stores after failing to find a buyer.
If you have a gift card for Borders you are advised to use them as soon as possible.
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