Our Story
Life-long feminists and long-time friends, Sarah Blagg and Randi Hewit, have been creating a feminist future through community organizating and pretty traditional activism for years. (So many postcards and buttons!) A year ago, we launched a Feminist Book Club followed by a NOW Action Team and realized that there is a need for a progressive book and gift store in Corning NY. Why? Because we can't find the books we need or the fab shirts and mugs we want when we shop locally. (Not even in nearby Ithaca NY.) This shop will also be a hub for organizers, host events like book-signings and open-mic nights, and show the world that these issues belong on Main Street.
One thing led to another and before long we had a business plan, an affordable lease for a retail space on Corning's award-winning Market Street, and another big idea. Why stop at a shop in Corning when the world needs more people reading progressive books and taking action? Soon the Card Carrying Club, a monthly subscription kit, was in the works too. For $29.50 per month plus tax and shipping, subscribers receive a book, activism tools, and other fun merchandise delivered directly to them. The goal is to create a nationwide book club that takes action every month.
People... it is really happening. Card Carrying Books & Gifts will open in September 2017. YEAH.
Your contribution will help us - and all our customers - build a feminist future in Corning and beyond!
What We Need & What You Get
We need $47,000 to open this shop based on these categories:
$1,500 for legal fees, membership in the American Bookseller Association, and web/design
$25,500 for inventory, fixtures, and a point-of-sale system
$19,950 for three-months of working capital (keep those lights on!)
In addition to this campaign, we are kicking in our own money, asking potential investors we know in person to give, and heading into the bank for a loan to make this happen. Please help us make that loan as small as possible by giving at one of these levels.
Friend - $25
Good Friend - $50
Bestie - $100
Life Partner - $250
The Impact
We all see what happens when progressive folks aren't organized. It's not pretty. Sarah and Randi understand that it takes more than rallies and meetings to change the world. It takes entire generations that understand issues and how to take action. Bookstores - specifically feminist bookstores - provide the environment needed to nurture and educate all those future activists while simultaneously serving and applauding the current ones.
We have experience in running businesses, both in the retail and non-profit world. We know how to balance the books, manage vendors, plan events, maintain websites, and keep social media accounts up-to-date. Plus we are both way above-average at wrapping gifts.
You will want to shop at Card Carrying Books & Gifts!
Other Ways You Can Help
Help us spread the word! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Tell all your friends. Become a Card Carrying Club member and receive that monthly dose of feminism starting in September.
We have a lot to do, and we need all the help we can get!
Thank you for reading all the way to the end. You deserve applause just for that.
#createcardcarrying
See you at the shop in September!
XOXO, Sarah and Randi
