Jackson, it certainly does sound like the employees could have treated you with more courtesy.

And generally speaking, I would say that in theory customers should be able to enter the store anytime before closing and shop.

However, several years ago, when I was working at a bookstore, we were robbed by a nice couple who entered the store shortly before closing. All the other customers paid and left, but this couple remained and store policy was to not rush people out the door - even after closing. The man wandered around in the back of the store (near the management office) while the woman browsed near the cashwrap.

When our manager exited the office, the man pulled out a gun and grabbed the manager, forcing him to the front of the store, where his accomplice pulled out a bag and demanded all the cash from our registers.

It was absolutely terrifying, let me tell you. Even though staff outnumbered robbers three to one, none of us wanted to risk someone getting shot.

I own a retail shop of my own now, and while I want to accommodate customers as much as I can, I don't encourage people to linger at closing time. It's a security risk.