Independent businesses are the lifeblood of a local economy, and bookstores are a crucial part of a communitys cultural, educational, and social character. Currently the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex has no independent bookstores, and the City of Mansfield has no bookstore of any kind. With the continued population growth in the area, and particularly in the southern part of Tarrant County, an independent bookstore is desperately needed.

Books and the worlds they open up to us still matter in the digital age, and Somerset Books will be a home away from home for readers and students of the area, a place where new ideas can be both discovered and shared. In addition to bestsellers, literature, mysteries, and other genres, Somerset Books will feature authors of local and regional interest that are too often ignored by the large chain bookstores.

Somerset Books will focus on and benefit from the traditional strengths of the independent bookstore personalized, friendly service, staff knowledge of a wide selection of books, and deep ties to the community. The store will become a community center and place of meeting, with opportunities for author signings and readings, book club meetings, and local activities. A major focus will be working with local libraries and schools to promote literacy in our community.

As with any new business start-up, funds are needed for everything from inventory to owner equity for securing bank loans. Funds raised here will go toward securing a bank loan, deposits on a storefront location, and inventory.

The VIP Perks are designed to give those who will shop at Somerset Books a bonus for helping with the start-up. The perks are pre-opening gift certificates that are author-themed, have no expiration date, and are good as soon as the store opens. During the pre-opening phase the gift certificates are offered at a discount from face value. This difference between the cost and the face value is a thank you to those who are willing to help bring an independent bookstore to Mansfield.

Whether you contribute at a VIP Perk level or give a smaller amount, please tell every book-lover you know about this project.