After 47 Years, Blue Marble Books Seeks New Owner

Beloved Fort Thomas children’s bookstore listed for sale as longtime owner steps down

Blue Marble Books, located in Fort Thomas, Ky., is looking for a new owner after nearly five decades in operation.

The store, founded in 1979 by the late Tina Moore, has become a regional and national landmark in children’s literature. Current owner Peter Moore announced in March that both the business and its building are now available for immediate acquisition. Moore hopes to find a buyer—or group of buyers—who will preserve the store’s mission and legacy.

“My wife Tina believed every child could find themselves in a book,” Moore said. “We’re looking for someone who will carry that vision forward.”

Blue Marble Books has occupied its current location on the south side of Fort Thomas since 1991. It is located just a few blocks away from Tower Park and the Historic Midway District. It is also easily accessible from Interstate 471. The building includes a street side entrance, dedicated delivery driveway, and a large garden space often used for events and children’s play.

One of the store’s signature features is the Great Green Room, a life-sized replica of the bedroom from Margaret Wise Brown’s Goodnight Moon. For more than 30 years, the room has enchanted visitors from around the region and has been recognized as a top local attraction by the Cincinnati Enquirer, Buzzfeed, and Cincinnati Parent Magazine.

The bookstore has long-standing relationships with publishers, schools, and libraries, including book fair partnerships and ordering accounts. All publisher accounts, memberships with the American Booksellers Association and regional groups, and subscriptions are transferable to the new owner. Inventory, furnishings, and equipment are also included in the sale.

Staff members will remain in place, but any transition would be at the discretion of the buyer.

Moore emphasized the importance of finding someone who values children’s literature and community engagement. “Blue Marble has always been about connection—between authors and readers, between kids and books, and among neighbors,” he said.

Interested parties should contact Peter Moore at 859-801-2237 or moorepe31@gmail.com for business inquiries.

For real estate details, contact John D. Coffman of Coffman’s Realty at 859-441-8090 or johncoffmanjr@coffmansrealty.com.