The "Books for Free" branch in Basildon's town
centre, celebrated six months of serving the community with a
Grand Opening on Saturday December 3rd at 11.30am.
The public of Basildon have really taken the store to their
hearts since it opened earlier this year, and as well as helping
the environment, the store - which is run entirely by
volunteers - has become a welcoming community space.
Lead Volunteer Robin Whitcomb said: "the support of the
Basildon people has been overwhelming. We have regular customers
and their number is ever growing. I was told yesterday by a total
stranger that he had been urged to check us out by friends and that
we were the "talk of the town"!
"BFF has become far more than just a bookshop; it is a place
where people can meet and chat without feeling any obligation. Many
of our visitors arrange to meet at the shop for that very reason.
The kids also love it. Where else can they go away with a free
book, a free sweet after drawing a picture or playing in the tent
(yes we do have one, donated by a volunteer) or simply sit on the
floor and flip through a book while Mum has a chance to browse the
bookshelves. It really has to be seen".
The Grand Opening was a fantastic affair, and was attended by
the Mayor of Basildon as well as Shaylesh Patel, founder of Healthy
Planet. Kicking off at 11.30am at the store at 21 Town Square,
there was entertainment from local dance charity, Kayzar. To
mark the occasion bestselling local author Martina Cole sent the
store a copy of her latest book with a signed dedication to Healthy
Planet.
Pop by next time your in town!