New York’s Strand Bookstore is basically a legend. It opened in 1927 and has been operating as a family-owned business ever since. But like so many small companies, it took a serious hit from the novel coronavirus pandemic shutdown. Sadly, the owners were faced with the possibility of closing down for good.
Videos by InspireMore
With revenue down to 70 percent, Strand took to social media to give customers the facts and encourage them to change the store’s fate by submitting online orders.
With foot traffic down, they needed as many online orders to come in as possible, which meant having to compete with low-priced mass retailers like Amazon. Still, they knew they had to get the word out and at least try to save the store, which is nearly 100 years old.
Their efforts paid off big time! Within a single weekend, they had received more than $200,000 through online book orders!
In addition to the flood of online purchases, they suddenly had a long line of customers waiting to get into the physical store once they were able to open to the public again. Patrons couldn’t wait to support them in their time of need!
After seeing her community step up, Nancy Bass Wyden, the founder’s granddaughter and the current owner, told The Washington Post, “How can I not love my book community for helping like this? I really don’t think that we’re just a bookstore. I think we’re a place of discovery and a community center. When I ask for help and they respond this fast, it’s so heartwarming.”
These days, the store is bustling trying to fulfill all the orders they received. They don’t seem to mind because it’s a reminder of their community’s kindness and what the store means to everyone!
Share this sweet story with your friends and remember to support local businesses.
Want to be happier in just 5 minutes a day? Sign up for Morning Smile and join over 455,000+ people who start each day with good news.
