In the movie “You’ve Got Mail,” a large chain bookstore puts a smaller community one out of business

This movie scenario could be mirrored for some DeKalb business owners.

The 22,000-square-foot Borders Books and Music is projected to open at Barber Greene and Sycamore roads on Nov. 17, said Paul Rasmussen, DeKalb director of community development.

Mark Hedborn, owner of the Book Muse Bookstore, 132 E. Lincoln Highway, said he’s seen one bookstore close since he has owned his business, and he thinks others have been affected by lack of support.

“Northern Lights closed about a year and a half ago. They got tired of the struggle, and that was without Borders’ competition,” he said.

Hedborn opened his store about two years ago and says the Internet keeps his sales afloat.

“If I relied on walk-ins I’d be out of business,” Hedborn said. “As a used bookstore I don’t feel threatened by Borders.”

However, Hedborn said if he worked at the Junction Bookstore, 822 W.Lincoln Highway, he’d definitely be concerned.

“Just as if another used bookstore came into town I’d view them as competition,” he said.

Don Rodrick, manager of the Junction Bookstore, said it sounds like the Junction needs to be put in a life boat, but that’s not the case.

“It’s hard to tell right now whether or not they’ll affect business,” Rodrick said. “You won’t know until they get here. We strive for excellence here. We won’t change the way we do business because I think we’ve been doing a good job.”

“Borders offers the same thing in every store no matter where they are,” he said. “We cater to DeKalb. We’ve been here for 30 years.”

Rodrick said when a book comes out, the Junction gets feedback from the community.

“Chains are developed to give one product around the country,” he said. “Chain stores don’t have loyalty to the community. If they don’t make the money they’ll pick up and leave. They don’t care about this community, but we do.”