THE MODERN STATIONERY STORE

The Slates have had to reinvent the store several times since its founding in the 1930s by adapting to the changing technology, including popularization of the telephone and the invention of the fax machine. Now, the company faces competition from internet sales and needs to reinvent itself again. But in their mid-70s, the Slate brothers no longer had the energy to do it.

“Laura [Donohue] is a magnificent human being full of enthusiasm and vigor needed to take Bob Slate into the 21st century,” Mallory said.

Donohue is looking to modernize the store by beginning to sell technology accessories and personalized invitations and stationery. She also has plans to periodically introduce new items into the inventory, which she hopes will add variety to the store’s offerings. Donohue also said that she will carry out market research to determine how to increase the number of younger customers.

“I’d love to come to a Harvard dorm room and see what they have on their desk. How do they organize their work? What do they bring to class?” Donohue said.

Donohue is embracing new technology by adding a computer system that will integrate the store’s financial system and the register, so she can keep track of the sales. Donohue also plans on creating a web store.

Along with adding new items, Donohue will continue selling Bob Slate’s traditional products, including theses binders, one item that she fondly remembers having to purchase at Bob Slate when she was an undergraduate.

“Mallory and Justin gave me their store with their fathers’ name. I want to be true to Bob Slate,” Donohue said.

Donohue is planning a grand opening before the holiday season when the store will be fully stocked.

—Staff writer Kerry M. Flynn can be reached at kflynn@college.harvard.