The Philomathian Religious Books and Gifts store will be closed next week as it moves across the street to the newly renovated bank building, continuing efforts to revitalize the Austin downtown area.

“I’m excited,” said Judy Gerlach, the co-chairperson of the Philomathian volunteer organization. “Now they want to bring more people downtown, so we’re really doing this at a good time.”

The Philomathians closed a lease for 310 N. Main St. on Sept. 1. They hope to be moved in as soon as Friday, Sept. 24, but they expect to be open on Sept. 27.

According to Gerlach, the group got financial benefits when they signed the lease with Twin Cities Attorney Patrick Bradley, who purchased the old bank building along with four surrounding business buildings, in the hopes of creating an attached unit of businesses, including restaurants, bars and retail shops.

Within the last six months, a rear lobby has been built in the area that formerly served as a roofed alley behind the bank building. The lobby includes an elevator, access to five business properties — currently including the Bakery Bar and Mickey’s Bar — and a rear entrance accessible through the back parking lot.

The Philomathians are also obligated to do additional advertising because of the lease contract, Gerlach said. That means the Philomathians are going to create a web site and may possibly include an online ordering service in the future. Gerlach said the store will have a grand opening for its new location some time later this Fall.