<div>Since opening <a href="https://www.thereadingbug.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Reading Bug</a> bookstore, now more than 13 years ago, we have strived to create a space for families that was more than just another retail shop - a community resource, a gathering spot, a place to learn and grow. We've brought incredible authors into our store and our schools. We've delighted children (some now grown!) with free story and craft times. We've hired the best-darned-staff of experts anywhere, and stocked our store with the very best books that we gladly recommend to anyone who asks. We've also created a free original story &amp; music podcast, <a href="https://www.thereadingbug.com/adventures" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Reading Bug Adventures</a>, to reach children around the globe that now has over 3.7 million downloads! Thanks to our customers and supporters, our vision for The Reading Bug has been realized beyond our wildest dreams. 
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<div>In the face of the Covid-19 pandemic, we chose to close our store's doors to help protect the community that we love.  You supported us through this and we are so grateful to have made it this far.  Our free storytimes and events are now held outdoors in front of the store and our event space is used to ship our Reading Bug Boxes to all 50 states!  
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<div><strong> In a business where margins are already tight, a new hurdle is upon us. We want to stay in San Carlos. However, our building will be demolished by JMS Construction in 2024 and we have less than 2 years to find a new space</strong>. A build-out to re-create our magical bookstore will cost anywhere from $100,000 to $250,000...not to mention the increase in rent we will see as Laurel Street rents continue to rise.  
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<div>We know that there are many important causes that need support right now. Please, donate what you can, shop with us online or in-store when you can to help us stay in our beloved community.  And, if you choose to donate to us, in any amount, we are truly grateful.
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<div>The funds given to this campaign will go towards a build-out of a new space, salaries, employee healthcare, vendor and utility payments and will help us continue to be a part of the community for many years to come. 
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<div>Thank you for your continued support, your kind words through this difficult time, and for keeping us in your community and in your lives.
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<div>#SmallBusinessRelief
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Support The Reading Bug Bookstore

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