About this idea
This is a dream. This will not be your average bookstore. I will sell used and new books. I am not going to exclude any genres. I will not discriminate against anyone. My children with level three autism are my inspiration for my vision. My bookstore will be a safe place for all people to be their true authentic self in a place where discrimination is not tolerated. People of all ages can come and share in the love of books and reading and learning! If I can get the funding and the space, I want to bookstore that offers an enclosed, locked, elopements proof childrens area to allow parents and caregivers of children to have a shopping experience they haven't had since before they became parents/caregivers to children with special needs. Beyond the sales of books, I will also offer book clubs/groups. I will eventually get licensed to sell prepackaged food, fresh food and drink made on site, and sell alcohol. Myself and a lot of my friends and coworkers would love a bookstore that offers adult book groups with alcohol. I know I would love to sit with like minded people, share the love of books, and sip on an alcoholic beverage. There will be a two drink limit and verification of a designated driver to participate. I also want to showcase local small businesses. I plan to have monthly spot lights on Indie authors and other authors that are not famous, yet. I have a growing list of services I want to offer. It keeps growing as people from my community provide ideas and suggestions! I want this to be a bookstore that is a benefit and positive influence on the communities I would serve. This will be a safe haven and gathering place for all people to share in the love of books, reading, and learning in a nonjudgmental and understanding environment.
Impact
The vision I have for this bookstore will provide community members with a place they can celebrate books and openly nerd out on being a book lover with nothing but support and no judgement. There is a large population of children in my community and surrounding communities that have special needs. Where I live we have many amazing autism spectrum disorder special education opportunities at public and private schools. This bookstore would allow everyone with special needs or those that are neurodivergent to feel like they belong and are welcomed in a business. This will allow more people to be able to shop for books, enjoy book clubs, and find a place to belong with their special abilities and special qualities. I see this bookstore increasing the quality of life of those that take advantage of everything I plan to offer.
What I'll do with $5,000
I would use the $5,000 to secure a location, buy inventory (books), buy furniture (bookshelves, seating, lighting, etc), buy hardware such as computers, register, credit/debit card reader, and software to run the business. Depending on if there is anything left over, I would use the funding to promote our business by obtaining and maintaining a website, promotional items such as fliers, posters, etc.
Quick Bio
My name is Vanessa Balzarine. I am 41 years old, a neurodivergent, registered nurse, wife, and special needs mother. I am so much more than those things, but those are the most important. Book nerd!
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