BURLINGTON, Vt. -
Readers wanted a Burlington bookstore so badly, they paid for it themselves.
Phoenix Books flagship store is located in Essex Junction. Owner Renee Reiner says she saw Borders books closure as an opportunity to expand. So she turned to her community for donations. They more than came through, donating $400,000 to open up the new store.
"This community is really supportive of an independent bookstore so it wasn't difficult. I said this is the plan, if you'd like to participate or if you know anyone that would like to participate. They thanked me for asking and said we would love to participate," Reiner said.
And the store is proving popular with politicians. Gov. Peter Shumlin, D-Vermont, will cut the ribbon on the new location Friday. Former Vermont Governor Madeleine Kunin will hold a book signing there Sunday.
