JACKSON, Tenn. (BP)–Union University will become the site of the only Baptist Book Store/LifeWay Christian Store on a college or university campus, effective Aug. 1.
In a contract finalized July 9, the national chain of Christian stores agreed to assume operation of the existing campus bookstore, located in the student center of the Baptist-related college in Jackson, Tenn. Plans are under way for the LifeWay Christian Store to move into a new two-story, 20,000-square-foot facility on the Union campus. The retail store will be located on the ground floor, with the second floor used for university offices, classrooms and an adult studies center.
Baptist Book Stores/LifeWay Christian Stores are operated by LifeWay Christian Resources (formerly the Sunday School Board) of the Southern Baptist Convention. The Union store will become the 75th bookstore in the chain. The chain currently operates bookstores on the campuses of the six seminaries supported by the Southern Baptist Convention.
Union President David S. Dockery emphasized, “This exciting partnership between Union University and Baptist Book Stores will benefit the university community as well as offer a wonderful resource for the churches of west Tennessee.”
“This is a win-win opportunity for Baptist Book Stores and Union University,” said Mark Scott, LifeWay retail group vice president. “The real benefits will be realized by the campus community and Jackson-area individuals and churches as we serve in shared ministry.”
Initially, the bookstore will carry the university’s existing academic books and selected products from the standard merchandising mix of other Baptist Book Stores. A grand opening is scheduled to coincide with the beginning of the university’s fall semester.
Union University, with 2,000 students, is celebrating its 175th anniversary.
