Do you want your community bookstore to fail?

I want to thank so many people who contributed to this campaign. As great as the amount is, it isn't enough to save the store. I've managed to keep it open, and find ways to delay payments, but the Coronavirus has been devastating. The store is open, but the major events, since February through October,  have been cancelled. These are vital to our survival, and we're looking at all funding options. We were denied PPP and EIDL loans because our credit rating wasn't good enough.

All the measures taken for public safety are necessary. I can still process orders online, by phone, and email. www.anovelbookshop.com

I'm sure many are struggling financially right now, but hope those that can to please contribute. Thank you so much.

UPDATE
My van, daily commuter and  cargo hauler for local events, suffered a ruptured radiator, which destroyed the engine. Funds were used to get it back on the road.  8/17/19

I was able, with the help of a customer, to see a specialist. The diagnosis for my condition is Parkinson's disease. I sat in my loaner car for hours behind the store, contemplating what to do next. I've decided to fight to keep the store. It's been my lifelong passion, and keeps me going. It's also my source of income, retirement (if I ever get to that), and medical treatment.

The problem is I need a lot of funds in a very short period of time. I'd prefer to earn my way out of this crisis, but it's too great to accomplish with additional sales. I need your help. If you can't donate, please spread the word. I can even add you to the funding team. We've tried going through the media, but if you can write them, maybe they'll take up the story. And I want to thank the MoCoShow for their article and support. 8/19/19


Novel Books opened 8 years ago in Clarksburg, MD. The store was growing each year, until last year, when very large, unexpected costs put the business in jeopardy. The losses are hard to recover, and the store is on the verge of closing.

Patrick, the owner, is a dedicated bookseller, who wants to provide a space, and selection, for the families of the Clarksburg area to enjoy books, events, and classes. Novel Books currently offers Story Time for toddlers, space for local books clubs, and gaming tables for chess clubs and Magic: the Gathering card tournaments. New programs include multi-week courses on music for toddlers, and using Legos to teach science and engineering.  A goal is to bring authors to the store for signings and new release events.

Patrick has been a successful advocate for infrastructure in the historic district. He hosted a nine month long candidate forum for the recent midterm elections. Novel Books has been a champion for small businesses in the shop local movement.

Last year, there were major medical expenses for an undiagnosed problem with Patrick's right arm.  It's progressively harder for him to use his hand to carry things, and do daily activities. He has no insurance.

Patrick uses an RV for multi-day off site events. The vehicle left him stranded in Tennessee last year for over a month, with a major engine overhaul. It is also intended to be used for pop up sales at local events, and communities.

The requested funds would go to catching up with debt for rent, and vendors, and be applied to medical treatment. And finally, to make additional repairs to the RV. If the goal is exceeded, Patrick would like to hire someone to help plan more events and programs at the store, especially if his condition worsens.

Novel Books can grow again, just like the book industry has been doing over the last five years, but is asking for your help.

Thank you for your support.