Winnipeg-based independent bookseller McNally Robinson has filed for bankruptcy protection and is closing two of its stores — one in the Don Mills area of Toronto and one in Winnipeg’s Polo Park Shopping Centre. Two stores remain: its Saskatoon location and its flagship Grant Park Shopping Centre location in Winnipeg, the latter of which I’ve visited — great store. I have a lot of affection for this chain, having grown up bookish in Winnipeg and given them a not-insubstantial amount of my money, and am sad to see this happen. News coverage from CBC News, the Financial Post and, of course, the Winnipeg Free Press (follow-up stories here and here); see also McNally Robinson’s blog entry on the situation.

Update, Jan. 26: That was quick: McNally Robinson emerges from bankruptcy protection.