Women’s Place book riot returns
Organizers are preparing for the 40th annual Nova House Book Riot, which begins with a pre-sale Wednesday and continues through Sunday in Niagara Falls.
The event will again take place at Niagara Square on Montrose Road, but this time inside an exterior store near World Gym.
The book riot is hosted by Women’s Place of South Niagara and raises money for the agency’s two shelters — Nova House in Niagara Falls and Serenity Place in Welland.
The shelters support women and children experiencing domestic violence.
The pre-sale is scheduled for Wednesday between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. for a minimum $10 donation at the door. Regular sale days follow Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.
“It’s our largest attended event, and it’s also our largest event in terms of what generates revenue to support our programs,” said development director Amanda Braet.
She said last year the book riot raised more than $60,000.
“That makes such a big impact on what we can provide to our community and members that need our services.”
Braet said Women’s Place offers many services that women and children can access, including a 24-hour support line.
“On average our staff receive five calls per day from people that need help. We also have counselling services for women and children, transitional housing support and a family court support program.”
Braet said organizing the book riot is no easy task. It takes the work of about 170 volunteers who have to sort through three full storage units, top to bottom, front to back, of books.
She said the book riot has “something for everyone” and is “very affordable.”
“Our volunteers spend a great deal of time sorting before the event, so it’s a well-organized event. If you’re looking for a special read, it’s generally easy to find, if we have it.”
She said visitors also flock to the event because they know they’re supporting a worthy cause.
“With the statistics of one in three women have experienced domestic violence in their lifetime, somebody knows somebody who has been effected by this, so it’s a nice way to purchase something for your enjoyment, but also to support the community members that need it.”
Braet said last year was the first time they had a pre-sale day and organizers received “great feedback.”
She said the tradition of allowing visitors to bring their own reusable shopping bag and to fill it with items for $5 on the Sunday will continue this year.
“I know some people really look forward to that. It’s the tail end of the event, and it helps us clear out the space and people get a good bargain, too.”