Where Should Outwrite Go?

Just about 24 hours after that will leave its location at 10th Street and Piedmont Avenue, founder and owner Philip Rafshoon sounds calm and determined.

"We're ready for the challenge," Rafshoon said over the phone Tuesday morning.

Monday was a "crazy day," he said. His phone, email and Facebook page were flooded with suggestions as to where the iconic independent bookstore -- which has served the gay and lesbian community for almost 18 years -- should relocate.

Due to financial struggles and an ever-changing book industry, Rafshoon can no longer afford to pay the lease at Outwrite's current location, where the bookstore has been located for the past 15 years. Rafshoon said the business must vacate early next year.

"We need to start looking now for a new location," Rafshoon said. "We've had a lot of suggestions ... I'm kind of excited about the possibilities."

He said the bookstore gets most of its business from tourists, so "we've got to find a location with a visible storefront."

Rafshoon said he'd like to remain in Midtown.

In the meantime, while the business regroups, do your part to ensure its future.

How can you help?

"What we really need people to do right now is shop," Rafshoon said. "These shelves are pretty full."

The bookstore is discounting "almost everything" by 25 percent and is planning to hold a poster sale to help off set the costs of relocating.