Hurricane Milton is now threatening Florida even as the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Helene is still being dealt with throughout the Southeast.
In North Carolina, Malaprop's Bookstore/Cafe, Asheville has launched a $1,000 GoFundMe campaign to help "in recovery for our ability to operate & recoup even a small amount of lost revenue. Despite our setbacks, we continue to work in the community to provide mutual aid & relief during these difficult moments. Thank you, AVL for decades of love. We hope to be here for many more." As of this morning, the fundraiser has exceeded $6,000.
In an earlier post, Malaprop's recommended that those wanting to help "consider donating to BINC [Book Industry Charitable Foundation]. They don't just help one bookstore in times of crisis; they help every indie in the nation when they can. And more importantly, they help booksellers. My grandmother used to say as all grandmothers do 'this too shall pass' and it will. Our booksellers will still be here because BINC helped them in some small way. Not only that, but other bookstores in WNC can also use those funds. We want to make sure that they and theirs can do this too. This isn't a situation that will end in a week, but donating to BINC can ensure that some of the strain is eased."
Highland Books, Brevard, N.C., checked in offering refuge: "We are here to help in any way that we can! We are open every day during our regular hours." A sidewalk chalkboard sign outside the store noted: "We love you, Transylvania County! We're in this together, so stop by if you need electricity to charge your devices or any information. Need a book, but are struggling? Ask us to show you our free book cart."
In Florida, many bookstores were closing for storm prep ahead of Hurricane Milton. Tombolo Books, St. Petersburg, posted an update yesterday: "Storm surge is expected to be 8-12 feet in our area. The good news, everyone, is that the bookstore is 30 feet above sea level! It's a cinder block building, built in the '50s and thanks to friends and booksellers we are boarded up. Now, we wait."
Blinking Owl Books in Fort Myers, which is still dealing with flood damage from Helene, posted on social media: "Once again, we find ourselves struggling to put what we want to say into words, because y'all showed up for us in such a big and wonderful way this past week! You graciously gave us your time, your labor, your emotional support, your boxes and bags, your water and treats, and, also, your monetary support. Y'all showed us the very best of what being in community with one another can be, and we're ever so grateful to you for that.
"For a myriad of logistical reasons, we'll not be returning to our storefront at 2150 W. First St. But don't fret, we PROMISE we're not going anywhere!! We're simply on the hunt for a new space in Fort Myers to call home! As we work to complete this quest, we're so excited that we'll also have the opportunity to pop-up and share stories with y'all at some of the truly remarkable events happening all over Fort Myers this Season!"