Changing Hands Launches Fundraiser for Second Location

Changing Hands Bookstore in Tempe, Arizona, launched an Indiegogo campaign on Monday in hopes of raising $80,000 to help fund the opening of a new bookstore/bar in the heart of Phoenix. The 5,000-square-foot store will offer a full inventory of new and used books, unique gift items, and a 30-seat wine-and-beer bar called First Draft. The store’s opening is planned for spring 2014.

The Indiegogo campaign will reward donors with a variety of merchandise, such as T-shirts, calendars, posters, tote bags, and greeting cards, depending on their level of support. All of the items have been created by local artists and are based on classic books, including Moby-Dick, Frankenstein, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, Beowulf, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, and The War of the Worlds. Higher-level donors also have the option of earning a season pass entitling them to a signed book and a reserved seat at a select number of events.

“We wanted to design a fun campaign that will hopefully raise the additional funds we need for our second location,” said Changing Hands co-owner Gayle Shanks. “We’re hoping that our colleagues will want to wear a ‘Who you calling Dick?’ T-shirt, or to carry a ‘Stay Classy’ tote bag, or get their hands on any of our other amazing campaign perks, and will contribute on our Indigogo page.  And, of course, tweet, Facebook, or e-mail all their friends who might like to, too.”

To help Changing Hands in its quest, a local artist produced a funny and inspiring video, featuring the characters of Moby Dick and Frankenstein’s Monster and aptly named “Frank ’N Moby Build a Bookstore.”

“The video is a hoot, from my totally unbiased perspective,” said Shanks.

Money raised through the Indiegogo campaign will supplement Changing Hands’ other resources and will help with constructing the space, building shelves, and purchasing inventory.

If the $80,000 isn’t raised in full, the campaign will end without donors being charged, and Changing Hands will receive no funding. The Indiegogo campaign ends on December 20. If the fundraising reaches the all-important $80,000 mark, production for the perks and gifts for donors will begin right away. Items should be available in late January 2014 and can either be picked up at the Tempe Changing Hands or be shipped to donors.