October Books, an independent bookshop and cooperative in Southampton, England, recently faced the challenge of relocating to a new venue after having operated in its original storefront for a remarkable 15 years. Escalating costs necessitated the move, and the community’s response was nothing short of extraordinary. In preparation for the grand opening of its new location, the bookshop devised a unique strategy that turned into a heartwarming community event.
Approximately 250 people from the community joined forces on a Sunday to create a human chain stretching between October Books’ previous and new locations. This human chain passed over 2,000 books, effectively clearing out the entire stock and facilitating a smooth relocation process. The cooperative, established in 1997, identifies itself as a non-profit radical neighborhood bookshop that transcends its traditional role. Beyond offering books, the store provides organic food, fair trade products, and serves as a venue for various events, including hosting a Southampton radical reading group.
In the preceding year, faced with rising rents, the co-op members embarked on a quest to find a new space that could serve as October Books’ future home. Their search led them to a former bank roughly 500 feet down the road, available for acquisition. Collaborating with a non-profit organization dedicated to aiding the homeless, the co-op secured the new property. However, the shop still needed £510,000 (approximately $650,000) in repayable loans and donations to finalize the deal. In August, they announced that their target had been met, successfully gathering £487,800 (roughly $635,000).
When the time came to move, the community demonstrated equal willingness to assist in the unique and creative method devised by October Books to transport books from its old stockroom to the new one: a human chain.
“We wanted something that was accessible for the whole family, for children and people who were older who wouldn’t necessarily be able to paint or move heavy pieces, to help out. It was a lovely way of including everyone and get the whole community involved,” shared Jess Haynes, one of the bookshop’s workers, with the New York Times.
The shop mentioned in its announcement that approximately 150 people would be required to lend a (literal) hand. Surprisingly, around a hundred more volunteers showed up, efficiently completing the job in just an hour.
“It was a tremendous show of support and community, and we’re moved and incredibly touched by it,” co-op member Clare Diaper told The Guardian. “We are of, and for, our community, and it is truly heartening to see that reciprocated.”