(MURFREESBORO) MTSU Phillips Bookstore, now operated by Barnes & Noble College, has reopened as the university began a Phase I resumption of more on-campus activity since moving to remote courses and work in March because of the coronavirus pandemic.

MTSU alumnus and new bookstore manager Natalie Karousatos said current Phase 1 store hours will be from 10:00 each morning until 2:00 in the afternoon Mondays through Fridays.

Since the Student Union remains closed the best entry is on the side facing MTSU Boulevard.

Barnes & Noble College was awarded the contract to operate the bookstore through a competitive bid process, but was unable to open in early April with the university scaling back on-campus activities because of COVID-19.

Coronavirus health protocols for MTSU Phillips Bookstore will include all customers and visitors wearing face coverings and social distancing -- Karousatos said the store floors are well marked with arrows and signage to keep at least six feet apart.

Karousatos said, "We're happy to be opening, Barnes & Noble is very excited to be on campus and I'm happy to be back here."