The World’s Only Curious George store is leaving Harvard Square and moving to Central Square

The World’s Only Curious George Store, now in Harvard Square, will be relocating to Central Square, according to owner Adam Hirsch.Jessica Rinaldi/Globe Staff/File 2016/Globe Staff

The World’s Only Curious George Store in Harvard Square is starting a new chapter.

After years in the heart of the busy square, storeowner Adam Hirsch announced Thursday that the company would be relocating to an undisclosed location in Central Square, a decision that came after “much deliberation.”

“Our time here has been an incredible experience, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the love and support of the surrounding community,” Hirsch said in a press release about the pending move.

The store’s last day in Harvard Square is June 30. Hirsch encouraged customers and supporters to stop in and visit the shop before it closes its current home and begins anew a bit farther “down the road.”

The building where The World’s Only Curious George Store is located — 1 John F. Kennedy St. — was purchased by New York real estate firm Equity One in 2016, with plans to turn it into an indoor mall. That decision left the fate of the store uncertain.

But a year later, after Equity One was acquired by Regency Centers, that all changed. The owners of the store got a reprieve and had expected to remain in Harvard Square’s Abbott Building once the redevelopment was complete.

“This was really a relief and we’re thrilled. The whole team is very excited to know that we’re staying in Harvard Square,” Hirsch said at the time.

Now the store, named for the iconic children’s book character, is once again preparing for its exit.

The World’s Only Curious George Shop owner Adam Hirsch, shown in a 2015 file photo.Jonathan Wiggs/Globe Staff/Globe Staff

Curious George was created by former Cambridge residents Margret and H.A. Rey.

H.A. Rey died in 1977, but Margret was alive to see the original Curious George store open in 1996. Hirsch took over ownership of the store in 2011.

The store’s closure follows the slow shutdown of other stores in the same stretch of buildings over the past few months, including the disappearance of Urban Outfitters and Tealuxe.

In a statement Thursday, Denise Jillson, executive director of the Harvard Square Business Association, said while the organization is “sad to see Curious George go,” it supports the company’s decision.

“It was a pleasure to partner with Adam and Jamie; their presence, along with that of our favorite little primate, will truly be missed,” she said. “As always, the HSBA will continue to promote commerce in Harvard Square and encourage people to shop locally.”