The screen is going dark for Video Express, 19620 W. 130th St., which is closing its doors permanently at the end of the month.

It is the last movie rental store in Strongsville.

The family-owned business has struggled with competition from Netflix Inc.'s mail delivery service and Redbox's $1-per-night kiosk rentals — and now owner Lori Mooney says it is too much to stay afloat.

"We noticed a change about a year ago, and I tried to hang on and hope that business would all come back but it just didn't and it is time we close," she said.

Mooney and her husband, Keith, opened their first Video Express store back in 1982 in Lakewood. The self-proclaimed "movie buffs" then expanded their successful "mom and pop" business into Parma and in Strongsville at Bennett's Corners in the Rego's plaza.

"No one ever cared that we didn't have the flashy lights and fancy carpet," Mooney said. "We've had some of the same employees from the beginning and we've gotten to know so many customers who have been with us for years. But too many have drifted."

Despite the impending closure of her store, Mooney says Video Express will operate like business as usual through January. Mooney continues to rent movies to her customers, and she even ordered some new releases that arrived a few days ago.

Still, everything in the store is for sale. VHS tapes are selling for 50 cents each. DVDs and Blue Ray movies are also up for grabs. There are also rolling racks, shelving and an alarm and security system for sale, as well as many movie posters.

"I've been selling out the stock, but I've been here for so long that it is like a library in here," Mooney said.

"I really don't have a clue what I will do next," she added. "It's going to take some time."

Not everyone likes the idea, however, of mail-order video services or heading to a kiosk to put their rental on a credit card. Those on the north end of Strongsville who still want to head to a store for movie rentals can go to Blockbuster in Berea, located at 445 W. Bagley Rd.  Residents in the south end of Strongsville can find movie rentals at Family Video in Brunswick, 3840 Center Rd.