In late August, a small, plain sign appeared among the garish “Store Closing” and “Everything on Sale” banners at Borders Store #1 on Liberty. It announced “Now Hiring,” and directed applicants to borders.com.

“How can you be hiring when the store is closing?” demanded a startled woman carrying a stack of bargains that included a word-for-the-day calendar and several hardback novels, all discounted forty percent.

“Staff is quitting,” explained the young man making change. “They need people to work till the end.”

She asked about his own plans. He was going to stick it out till closing, he said, because if he does, “My supervisor will write me a good recommendation.”

At least three people have quit “Store Number One” in the past couple of weeks, according to the clerk.

The job appears perfect for someone who can handle pressure–the lone clerk was working a long line while fielding shouted questions about how much some items were reduced. It isn’t a job with a future–the store’s expected to close in mid to late September–but the temporary employees will be eligible to attend a final blow-out party. Rumor has it that it will be held on the store’s second floor, and open to anyone who’s ever worked at Store #1.

Should be crowded.