Serendipity Books, an indie bookstore in CHELSEA, MI, is making a huge splash! Now they have just moved into their new permanent storefront – located at 119 S. Main Street – and bid adieu to their former space at 108 East Middle Street. On a beautiful Saturday morning, the community was awakened by the roaring and revving of an incredible turnout. Over 1,000 volunteers came together to carry, load, and otherwise move at least 10,000 books.
“We’re still in shock at the support that our community has given us,” said Serendipity Books owner, Michelle Tuplin. She only wanted to find some help moving an estimated 9,100 books, but the response far exceeded her expectations. Volunteers processed through two lines that rippled almost a block long from the archival store to their fresh uptown digs.
Even as the long and tiring moving process was taking place, the energy in the room was lively, harmonious, and positive. Live music and positive vibes turned both venues into a family-friendly neighborhood block party. Kids and kids-at-heart of all ages participated in the festivities. From a 6-year-old to a 91-year-old, everybody worked together to get books from one person to the next.
I didn’t know how ambitious a journey that would be or whether we’d make it that far at all. As I was coming down the steps of the little country store, I rounded the corner and saw the line. Unexpected support from the community took me out, it was difficult for me to stay composed, Tuplin said about her emotional response.
The transition wasn’t just smooth, it was jubilant, wrapping up in under two hours. The event rocked the social media world, especially on TikTok. A video of the move went viral, accumulating more than 1.6 million views in two days!
Tuplin also touched on the unique role that independent bookstores play in their communities. “I think independent bookstores have a really important place in communities, and people feel an ownership, a sense of being a part of a thing,” she said, noting that many community members expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to participate in such a meaningful way.
The joy and connection between participants was palpable as they sang, danced, and toiled side by side. “There were families there. I think there was a 6-year-old and then a 91-year-old, so it went over the whole gamut,” Tuplin remarked about the diverse group of volunteers.
Whenever I found myself feeling stuck, community engagement was a wellspring of inspiration. “People have said to me, ‘Thank you for doing this. We just really need to see this right now and be a part of a thing,’” Tuplin added. “Community means a lot to people and it’s just really powerful to see it in action.”
