As an indie bookstore, one of my main missions is to support our community by providing the kind of comfort and a safe haven I feel when I walk into my own favorite bookstores. Being a mobile bookstore, I've realized one small way I can do this is by connecting with my community on a very small local level.
Our local cancer and resource center, Michelle’s Place, started a book club the same month I launched. After touring Michelle's Place, and learning about all the ways they help and support families in our community, I made it my mission to contribute towards their book club each month. So far, I’ve been able to pull it off with the help of our generous community.
Each month, Michelle’s Place sends me their book club pick, and I order the books and make them available for donation purchases. I offer 10% off additional book purchases made the same day to anyone who donates. As a bonus, Wiens Cellars helps me reach my goal once a month, by offering additional 10% off wine purchases the day I'm setup there with proof of book club donations.
This month will be my seventh month dropping off books to Michelle’s Place, and I can say wholeheartedly, they are extremely grateful. In addition to the books donated by the community, I always strive to put in something special, whether it's fun bookmarks, stickers, or special wrapping, to make the gift extra joyful. THANK YOU to all our donors who help make this possible and thank you to Wiens for offering additional discounts to support our cause!
The next few book picks are Frozen River (January), The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek (February), The Lioness of Boston (March).
If you'd like to donate to the book club at Michelle's Place, please email thespineandvine@gmail.com.