What Can Replace Outwrite?

Some folks are wondering what could possibly replace , which Thursday due to financial struggles after 18 years in business.

For 15 of those years, the iconic bookstore has occupied the busy corner at Piedmont Avenue and 10th Street, arguably one of the "gayest" intersections in Atlanta. Many considered Outwrite a safe haven for the LGBT community, a place where it was OK to discuss, question and embrace one's sexuality.

"It's difficult to imagine what's going to happen to that corner," Outwrite's founder and owner Philip Rafshoon said on the phone Thursday afternoon.

The approximately 2,500-square-foot store already is up for lease.

Rafshoon said the building's landlord, Jodaco Inc., is looking to replace Outwrite with another local, independent business that's just as community minded as the former tenant.

"We hope he keeps true to that commitment," Rafshoon said. "I want that corner to be successful."

But what could possibly replace such a memorable business?

"Hopefully something else the community can utilize rather than something stupid like an upscale flip-flop boutique," one reader wrote Patch in an email Thursday.

So we'd like to know ...

What would you like to see at that busy corner in the heart of Midtown? What would serve the community as Outwrite did? Should it be a gay-themed business or does that not matter? Would you prefer a local, independent business take over the space?

Please share your thoughts in the comment section below!