A display at Island Books includes a weathered sign that welcomed book lovers even on Sundays. Owners Roger and Nancy Page and their staff are holding a 40th anniversary ‘pie potluck,” between 3 and 6 p.m. at the shop.

Of the store, Roger Page writes; “It exists because a whole lot of people have wanted it to exist. First, it was Lola Deane. Forty years ago, it was her intention, chutzpah, and hard work that gave the store its first form. A group of friends (Andrea, Phyliss, Sally, Julia, etc.) helped with the early heavy lifting, and then it was afloat. Lola moved on and handed the tiller to Marge, Fam, and Elinor. Soon after that, I arrived.

But these are just names of players.

If you counted them all, maybe eighty people have worked at the store. Smart, fabulous, lively people who have dedicated decades to the store. But then, what about the dozens and dozens of people who have helped with Harry Potter parties, book signings, or late night carpet laying? What about the generations of residents and their love and intention that allow the store to thrive and remain?” There are now thousands of people who have left their mark, played their part, made it possible.”