Afterword, popular Crossroads bookstore bar, closing under new landlord. But its story isn't over

First opened in 2018, the Kansas City cocktail bar will shut its doors at the end of January. The new landlord plans to convert the space into a new lounge concept — to the dismay of many longtime customers. But Afterword's leaders are hunting for a new home.

With two more Open Mic Nights and more than a month left on its lease at Afterword Tavern & Shelves — a cozy corner hotspot where patrons leisurely bond over drinks and good reads — the popular Crossroads third-space isn’t finished telling its story despite losing the space to its new landlord, said Kate Hall.

“If you haven’t been in, we would love to meet you. If you are one of our friends, do not be a stranger,” said Hall, general manager of the neighborhood favorite. “This book deserves to be closed with all the love we have put