In spite of the rapid growth of e-mail as a means of primary communication, retired United States Postal Service (USPS) employee Frances Marsh knows that “snail mail” is here to stay, and her newest business reflects that belief.

She has opened the Mail Room in the South Kitsap Mall, where she also owns The Hair Fair and the former Icebox ice cream store.

Marsh retired from the USPS ten years ago and her knowledge of and experience with its procedures was the basis for starting her new business.

The Mail Room brings many mail services to customers who might not have the time to make wait in line at the post office, including regular postal service, Western Union money transfers, bulk mailing, and connections to shippers like UPS, Fed-X, and DHL. Other services include stamps, copying, faxing, and boxes for sale. Marsh also offers free packing and recycles packing peanuts which she sells for 50 cents a bag.

There are 184 mailboxes available for rent, with costs ranging from $5 for the small size, $10 for medium boxes, and $15 for the largest.

The Mail Room is located right next to the Hallmark store on the main level of the mall.