- Dave Campbell: Books on Central Manager, Elizabeth Child: Executive Director
- Books on Central – 227 Central Avenue in Faribault – longtime Dandelet Jewelry
- https://www.ricecountyunitedway.org/books-central
- This was part of the United Way efforts to have a local bookstore in Faribault.
- The location is previous Dandelet Jewelry building which is a very historic place in Faribault dating back to the 1800’s.
- The first window display as Books on Central was in November 2022 with a Grand Opening of October 2023.
- Their first 6 months’ rent was donated to help them get started.
- They have gathered books from various donors such as Lonsdale Library, Book House in Dinkytown, and the Northfield Hospital. Also many personal donations.
- Every book that comes in is inspected and priced.
- The inside of the building has received an epic renovation where they added a bathroom, improved floors, and moved the old large safes out of the building.
- They also put a lot of work into shelving and re-purposing bookshelves.
- There has been a lot of youth and community involvement in making Books On Central a success so far. There has been a BA service day and Ruth’s House has helped. Ibrahim Khalif also helped out a lot!
- They are open Wednesday through Friday 1a-5p and Saturday’s 10a-4p.
- They welcome all ages and have a warm and inviting environment.
- They also have events there and are more than just selling books. They have had Authors, Historians, and Book clubs there. All events have been free.
- They have also done free book coupons for Faribault students to help with incentive-based rewards for students.
- For more information you can visit their website or find them on Facebook.
- Future needs include newer novels and children’s books. Volunteer help is appreciated and please spread the word about their store!
- Rotarians had several questions for Dave and Elizabeth at the end of the presentation.
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