The owner of the independent bookstore Book Bodega in Ramsgate, Kent, Sapphire Bates, has posted on Twitter a need for £800 in order to pay the store’s costs. Her post was quickly inundated with words of support from celebrities and authors like Sue Perkins, Ian Rankin, and other members of the literary world.
Ms. Bates stated to the BBC, “It’s been a tremendous challenge from week to week to pay our bills.” With rent, wholesaler bills, staff expenditures, and fuel bills all due in the coming days, it was evident that her shop was in serious need of assistance.
Perkins requested the support of her Twitter followers for Book Bodega, while Rankin also expressed his support online. Later, Ms. Bates thanked everyone for their assistance and generosity.
With over 3,2 million views on her tweet and donations from throughout the Country, the response from the book community was amazing. This story of resiliency and resolve is a reminder of the strength of community and how even modest actions can have a significant impact.
