Updated 2:55 p.m. Jan. 18: It appears the closure is permanent, as an "out of business" sign now hangs on the door.

Barbara's Hallmark at 8591 S. Howell Ave. appears to have closed, though it's not clear if the closure is permanent.

A few Patch readers e-mailed in to say the store has been closed for roughly a week. Lights were dark and a "closed" sign hung Wednesday.

The Oak Creek Hallmark store is independently owned and operated by James Caster, who couldn't be reached.

The Hallmark corporate office has not been informed of the store's closing, company representative Kristi Ernsting said.

"Hallmark works with the owners in the Hallmark Gold Crown store network to provide extensive marketing and promotional support, as well as to help negotiate leases and discounts with suppliers," Ernsting said. "Like most American businesses, the tough economy has been challenging for Hallmark and our network of retailers."

Barbara's Hallmark is part of the Oak Creek Centre, in the 8500 block of S. Howell Ave. across from the community center and library.