Beaver Dam, Wis., would love to have an independent bookstore, and its mayor has come up with an unusual way to attract one. On the the Midwest independent Booksellers Association's blog, executive director Carrie Obry shared the details: "A vibrant city that values a strong sense of community knows all the positive things an independent bookstore can do for the local area. Becky Glewen, the mayor of Beaver Dam, Wis., has been in touch with us to help us locate an entrepreneur interested in opening a bookstore in her town."
Noting in a flyer that "resources will be available for you" for a "prime location" in the theater-arts district, and that "an investor (developer) is looking to speak with you," Mayor Glewen poses and then answers two key questions:
Why Beaver Dam, Wis.?
"We are a thriving community of 16,000+ residents, near three major metropolitan areas. Our downtown is being developed as a theater-arts district. By the end of 2018, the Beaver Dam Area Community Theater will complete its $2.4M theater building project downtown. In addition to the theater, the local Arts Association, in partnership with community donors, businesses, and the city, funded a Wall Dog Mural Festival which placed 14 murals throughout the City with a concentration on the downtown area. Beaver Dam is focused on creating downtown space for the community to gather. A bookstore would be a positive addition to our city and county, acting as a cultural hub and literary anchor for the downtown."
Why right now?
"The opportunity is available to work with a building investor that is interested in renovating the space for the right new business start-up. Future grant funds are available for new business start-ups, facade and awning improvements."
For more information, contact Mayor Becky Glewen, rglewen@cityofbeaverdam.com. 920-887-4600 x398.