Bookstore’s viral “Book Brigade” moves hearts and inventory, one book at a time

An indie bookstore in Chelsea, Michigan, needed a little help. A lot of help. They were moving locations.

The reason for the move? They were outgrowing their old space. A good problem to have!

Community Steps Up in a Big Way

The owner of Serendipity Books, Michelle Tuplin, put out the call. She needed extra hands to move from Middle Street to Main Street.

And Chelsea delivered. Big time.

Tuplin told ABC News she was overwhelmed when she saw the line of people ready to help. “I really struggled to hold it together,” she said.

The “Book Brigade” is Born

Around 300 people showed up. They formed what’s now known as the “book brigade. ”

The story even went viral on TikTok. The store’s original post got over 1. 7 million views!

Quick Work, Big Impact

The whole move took only two hours. Can you believe it?

An estimated 9,100 books were passed hand-to-hand. The volunteers were of all ages. It was quite a sight in the charming Michigan town.

Chelsea has about 5,300 residents. That means roughly one in 17 people helped out.

More Than Just a Bookstore

“I think there was a 6-year-old and then a 91-year-old, so it went over the whole gamut,” Tuplin said.

She added that independent bookstores are important to communities. People feel a sense of ownership. They want to be part of something. And the move gave them a chance to help in a real way.

Grand Opening Ahead

Serendipity Books is having its grand opening on April 26. It’s also Independent Bookstore Day.