Pour one out for one of Seattle’s most unique independent bookstores. Ada’s Technical Books & Cafe is set to close this June. Founded in 2010 by Danielle and David Hulton in Capitol Hill, it was Seattle’s first bookstore devoted entirely to technical subjects, spanning fields like computer engineering, architecture, and even science fiction. The shop moved in 2013 to its current home: a cozy, converted house on 15th Ave E.
The accompanying cafe will not close outright; the Fuel Coffee locations are now for sale. In 2020, the Hultons expanded their business by acquiring Fuel Coffee, a small local chain. Danielle Hulton said the Fuel Coffee locations are now seeking new owners. As for the bookstore, Ada’s will close on Saturday, June 6.
In the announcement shared on Instagram, Ada’s owner Danielle Hulton explained the reason for the closure:
“I’ve reached a season of life where I need to prioritize my family and new career goals. After many months of trying to transition Ada’s to new ownership, it has become clear that closing is the most viable path forward. While this wasn’t my initial plan, I recognize that Ada’s was a very specific dream of mine; it feels right to make room for something entirely new in this space.”
Hulton also shared some key dates for the bookstore’s final months, saying, “We want to go out on a high note and celebrate this community.” Here is the closing timeline and important dates coming up at Ada’s:
- April 25: Seattle Independent Bookstore Day, with all-day celebrations at the store.
- May 11: the last day Ada’s will take any special orders for books to pick up in the store. This applies to orders placed in person, as well as “pick up in store” shipping options on the website.
- May 15: any subscription customers will have their final subscription book fulfilled.
- Starting in Mid-May: Ada’s will have final discounts on all books and merchandise left in the store.
- June 1-6: Ada’s final birthday celebration week.
- June 5: The last day of kitchen service.
- June 6: The planned closing date for Ada’s. This is also the last day to place any orders for shipment to your home on their website and the last day to spend gift cards. (Hulton said: “If we find ourselves needing to close earlier than the 6th, I will send out another newsletter blast so that you have the most up to date timeline for spending your gift cards.”)
Hulton also noted that although their hours will stay the same, the above schedule may shift. For the most up-to-date information regarding Ada’s sales, special events, and final hours, visit their Instagram and website.
