Around Indies

Northshire Wins “Green” Award

Northshire Bookstore, in partnership with Alan Benoit, has been awarded the 2012 Vermont Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence in the small business category.

The Manchester Center, Vermont, bookstore was recognized for implementing renewable energy projects, installing a solar interactive education kiosk, and partnering with local architect
Benoit, who provided more than 30 workshops on various sustainable living topics at the bookstore for the general public.

“I have strong passion for working on the myriad issues facing our species and planet,” said Northshire owner Chris Morrow. “‘Environment’ is not separate from business or society — we live in a complex, interconnected world.”

Northshire and the other 2012 award recipients will be recognized by Vermont Gov. Peter Shumlin and Agency of Natural Resources Secretary Deb Markowitz on May 15 at the Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility’s annual spring conference at the University of Vermont.

Read previous BTW story on Northshire’s use of solar energy.

Capitola Book Cafe to Adopt New Business Model

In an effort to stay afloat and competitive, California’s Capitola Book Cafe will be adopting a new business model, according to the Capitola-Soquel Patch. The business will be streamlined to increase inventory and reinforce its role as a cultural hub, carrying more unique and local products. The store’s well-known event series will be turned into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit called “Books Belong,” which will host author events, book clubs, writers' workshops, adult education, and more. It will be funded by grants and tax-deductible donations from the community.

Additionally, from May 20 - June 30, Capitola is holding a “Survive and Thrive” fund-raising campaign, with a goal of raising $285,000 to make up for slow sales. The store will kick off the campaign on May 20, with a party, complete with music and a silent auction.

Cash Mob Floods Phoenix Books

On Tuesday, a mob of customers descended on California’s Phoenix Books with $10 in hand. The cash mob was the first initiated by Save Our Downtown, a small citizen’s group in the San Luis Obispo area that connected with community members through online social networks.

“We want the downtown to maintain its charm and appeal, and part of that is not just the architecture and landscape, but making sure there is a diversity of shopping options downtown,” Save Our Downtown Chairman Allan Cooper told the San Luis Obispo Tribune News.

R.J. Julia to Be Mobbed Soon

On May 19, a cash mob is scheduled to patronize R.J. Julia Booksellers in Madison, Connecticut, the New Haven Register reported. The mob, which is asked to spend at least $20 at the store, is the first in a series of events planned to stimulate local business.

“It gives residents a chance to make a direct impact on their community,” by supporting local merchants, said Will Warren, economic development director for REX, a public/private partnership promoting economic development in South Central Connecticut. “The main purpose is that, over the last several years, a lot of small businesses have struggled.”

The cash mob is being publicized through Facebook and Twitter.

Broadway Books' Anniversary Celebration a Hit

Broadway Books' owners Sally McPherson and Roberta Dyer pose in the photo booth at the store's 20th anniversary celebration.

Broadway Books in Portland, Oregon, celebrated its 20th anniversary with an impressive turnout from community members. The store hosted several local authors, served refreshments, and rented a photo booth for customers to pose with favorite books or friends.

Broadway gave away several books, and loyalty cards were worth double for the day. “All in all, it was truly a celebration of all things local and a great celebration of 20 years!” said co-owner Sally McPherson.

Crow Bookshop Featured

In a feature on Crow Bookshop in the Burlington Free Press, owner Keith Terwillegar discussed the Burlington, Vermont, bookstore’s recently launched website, which he said will give customers a chance to buy online from the “local guy.”

Crow Bookshop opened in 1995, and carries new and used books, as well as remainders. Though Terwillegar is excited about the new website, he notes that customers who visit the store have a distinct advantage. “We allow one to wander in a physical space with the hope that it will expand one’s interests,” he said.