THE Southern

CARTERVILLE - John A. Logan College opened its new campus bookstore Wednesday.

The JALC Bookstore replaces the 710 Bookstore site, which has moved off campus. It is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and is next to the cafeteria downstairs in the main building on the Carterville campus.

College President Robert Mees thanked 710 for providing "years of good service" and said the decision to switch to new managing firm, Follett, was simply an economical one.

"Follett was the best bid, and we had never bid the service before and should have done so," Mees said. "We're very excited about what the new store has to offer. The location is much better and I think the students and general public will be impressed with the merchandise and services they have to offer."

DelShaun Hudson, store manager, said she's glad to be back in Southern Illinois again. A native of O'Fallon, Hudson worked the last few years with a store in San Antonio.

In addition to new textbooks and supplies such as paper, pens, notebooks and calculators, Hudson said the store also features clothing and gifts such as mugs, wallets, key chains, ID holders, lotions and lip balms.

"I think that once people stop by to see what we have to offer, they will want to come back," she said.

Hudson said she is looking to hire some part-time help for the store. She may be reached at 618-985-6418.

John Homan of John A. Logan College Media Services contributed the information for this report.