Cambridge landmark Harvard Book Store will replace Barnes & Noble (B&N) which is closing its Prudential Center location next month.

The closing which was exclusively reported in The Boston Guardian last June is part of B&N’s retrenchment from retail bookstores. John Henry, the owner of the Red Sox and The Boston Globe is a major investor in Harvard Books which has been locally owned and independently run since 1932. “John is a voracious reader,” noted one of Henry’s close friends who requested anonymity. “He loves bookstores”.

The Pru location contains about 38,000 square feet and represents the Prudential Center’s largest retail tenant. It combines book sales, a coffee shop and is noted for lecture and book signings.

Spokespeople for Boston Properties which owns the Pru and B&N did not respond to requests for comment.

Harvard Book Store will open in the third quarter of next year.