Putney Books- A Community Supported Bookstore

Community members in places around Vermont and the country are realizing the usual models for business development in small communities may not work in today's world. Businesses that contribute much to community life often need a combination of charitable investment, community support, and entrepreneurship to succeed.  That's exactly what we're trying to do here in Putney.

A number of families from the Putney community and the Preservation Trust of Vermont have made contributions that will cover some initial expenses including payroll and rental expenses to help start Putney Books. 

If you're familiar with Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) you will understand the next step in the effort to reopen the bookstore.  CSA participants make a payment at the beginning of the year, and get a "share" of the food production during the harvest. The system supports farmers and local food production. 

Our plan is to sell Community Supported Bookstore Certificates. The funds raised will help cover the cost of stocking the new book inventory and toy/gift sections of the store. This same approach has been used to start and support other important community supported businesses elsewhere in Vermont . These certificates aren't an ownership interest; an advance of funds that are intended to be repaid to the purchasers over the next four years, through the procedure set forth below. We hope to raise $30,000 by     October 4th.

Here's how it will work:

Please consider purchasing a certificate for $500 or $1,000.

• If you purchase a $500 Bookstore Certificate, you will be able to redeem forty-four (44) $12.50 certificates to be used on a one per month basis over 5 years. Your repayment will equal $550.

• If you purchase a $1000 Bookstore Certificate, you will be able to redeem forty-four (44) $25.00 certificates to be used on a one per month basis over 5 years. Your repayment will equal $1100.

• For example: As a customer with a $12.50 certificate, you could purchase a $26.45 ($24.95 plus tax) book for $13.95.

• Certificates will begin November 1, 2008.

• Certificates can be gifts!

Is there a risk for Certificate holders?

Yes.  Starting a small independent business is a risky business!  Starting an independent bookstore is even riskier!  There is a chance this won't work.  Your certificate is redeemable only as long as Putney Books stays open.  That is the total extent of your risk. We hope Putney Books will be open for many years! We think the community supported structure we have devised for Putney Books offers a real chance of success.  It will require very hard work and continuing support from customers and the community.

Please join this effort! All your support is welcome!  If you would like to purchase a certificate or have questions, call Sarah Tirrell-Baker at 387-4800.

Thank you!