Save a Bookstore!

My name is Andree Bizier, and I am the sole proprietor of downtown Nanaimo’s newest and only independent bookstore.  Windowseat Books was opened in August 2018 to the community’s delight, but has been struggling for the past year. 
       
        The reason I opened a bookstore is because I believe whole-heartedly in the value of books; in the power they have to teach, inspire, change perspectives, and experience wonder.  The independent bookstore is a community hub, not just for book lovers, but for people who want a safe space to share ideas and experiences, and be themselves.  I dream that Windowseat Books may grow in this small community, in order to share all the love, kindness and knowledge that I have acquired through books.  I truly believe an independent bookstore is an essential addition to small communities, and I am working my buns off to make that happen.  Unfortunately, the struggle is real and it has affected the quality of stock and implementation of new ideas that are in turn affecting the growth of the store.  Windowseat Books needs books!  I have maintained an inventory of diverse, progressive and relevant titles as well as beautiful books, for both adults and children, which I can no longer maintain at this moment.  This makes me almost ashamed!  I need help…help to stock this baby with the best books out there, while I work on the business.  I have learned difficult lessons running this business over the past year and a half, and I do not want this to affect my amazingly loyal and patient customers.

        I am currently spending every spare penny I have to keep this valuable community resource going. I commit to putting all money raised into inventory in order to continue offering the service Windowseat Books is known for.  I commit to working on the business at 150% capacity to attain sustainability and be part of this community I have fallen in love with.