No one should fear losing their business because of illness, but for many small-business owners, this is a reality. The Book Shelf is a community-based used bookstore in Eagle River, Alaska. It is frequented by avid readers, parents looking for low-cost children's books, and anyone looking for a welcoming third space.

Cindy has been the face of The Book Shelf since 2012. Whether you are looking for a specific book, something to please a reluctant reader, or recommendations based on what you already love, Cindy is there for you. Every year she and fellow "book fairies" hand out free children's books during the Bear Paw Parade. She genuinely cares about her customers and her community.

Cindy has been fighting a severe infection that has required multiple hospitalizations. She is expected to be in the hospital for at least three more weeks. In addition to worrying about her health, she has had to also worry about the future of her business. The Book Shelf is not just a passion--it is how she supports her family.

This GoFundMe has been started on her behalf with the goal of raising one month's rent for the store, so that Cindy can focus on getting healthy and getting back to what she loves--her family and her store. Any contribution helps to keep this small, locally-owned business a place for Eagle River residents to enjoy for years to come. Any funds raised above our goal will go toward other business-related expenses normally covered by sales.