The popular Kiama and Bowral Bookshops were sold recently for an undisclosed sum, by Clare Meldrum and Michael Burns of Bowral.

Previous owner Marie Fitzpatrick said that decision to sell came after almost 32 years of owning the Bowral bookshop and 18 years owning the Kiama bookshop.

“We've cherished our careers at the heart of the book-loving communities in the Southern Highlands and South Coast,” Ms Fitzpatrick said.

“Sharing our love of stories and storytellers has been rewarding and enriching in so many ways. We’ve had the pleasure of serving generations of readers, from our own friends through to their grandchildren,” she said.

Clare Meldrum’s leadership was good news for Southern Highlands and South Coast communities, Ms Fitzpatrick said.

Clare Meldrum is a book industry professional who has worked in sales and account management roles at a range of publishers, including Bloomsbury, Pan Macmillan, Allen & Unwin and Hachette.

It is understood the new owners will continue to support community organisations and host literary events.