Necessity is indeed the mother of invention.
So when the COVID-19 pandemic forced the closure of Downtown Guelph fixture The Bookshelf for the first time in its 47-year history, owners Ben and Stephanie Minett jumped into action.
"The only time the bookshelf had to close was when there was that 2 day electricity black out about 20 years ago," said co-founder Barb Minett in an interview conducted via email.
"You can say that the French govt is thinking of calling bookstores an essential service. I believe everyone is worried about people’s mental health and books can help with that."
Co-owners Ben and Stephanie Minett said they decided to go to a delivery-based business model early last week.
"We temporarily shut The cinema and The ebar last week when recognized the severity of this global health crisis," Ben said.
"We decided to go to a delivery-based model because limiting community spread of COVID-19 is of the utmost importance to us and our customers. We believe that literature, philosophy, history, poetry, science, self help, religion ... can really help people in times of uncertainty--especially since they will be spending a lot of time at home."
Delivery is free in Guelph.
Books can be ordered by going to www.bookshelf.ca or by calling 519-821-3311 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday or emailing [email protected].
"There has been a good response so far. We are very grateful to our amazing community," Ben said.
"It is equal parts business decision and social service ... we will put a book in your hands to suit your mood."
