Gather Books & Lovely Things | Gather Literary Society

“The work [Gather does] to bring stories and books to underrepresented communities reminds us of how stories and books build empathetic, generous citizens, which is why such contributions build strong and vibrant communities.” – Megan Cole, ED BC & Yukon Book Prizes

Both Gather Bookshop and Gather Literary Society strive to serve the Squamish Community and operate under the founding belief that simplifying access to literary arts strengthens communities by cultivating self-love and acceptance.

• Gather's combined teams of staff and volunteers have dedicated hundreds of hours making books more accessible in the Sea to Sky Corridor
  • Offered over 80 free community events

• Also spending time on likeminded community initiatives including:
  • Serving on various Board of Directors
  • Hosting speaker panels bolstering connection within the arts sector
  • Participating in peer and teen business mentoring programs
  • School visits
  • Partnering and sharing strategic support for community groups and organizations

“Julie is someone who repeatedly gives her time, energy, skills, and resources to help the people around her feel seen and valued; she creates spaces where people feel safe, seen, and heard, and leave feeling like they've been wrapped in a warm blanket. Because of Gather, our community feels a little more connected, cared for and welcoming.”

– Sarah Keller, Local Artist & Teacher

GATHER BOOKSHOP HIGHLIGHTS:

This 5-year-old business has become a community hub and safe space for humans of all ages to be themselves. Gather strives to showcase diverse voices and support local authors and artists – allowing customers to see themselves and their peers represented while experiencing new perspectives.

“Julie is the embodiment of the Squamish community. Her humble yet ceaseless leadership is an inspiration to everyone around her as she strives to support local artists and organizations. Gather creates a warm, nurturing environment for local talent and brings residents and visitors together wherever they go. I couldn't think of a more deserving recipient for this award.”

- Michael Shauch, Local Author

This year, our business has:

• Run dozens of meaningful collaborations with local businesses and orgs
• Supported 20+ local Author/Artist events
• Pivoted to better serve the community through:
  • Free delivery Fridays
  • Online Book Fair Fundraisers
  • Writing courses for adults
  • Kiddo camps
  • Read & Return extension (500+ gently used books)
  • Loved Squamish locals by:
    • Helping orgs earn thousands of dollars via fundraising programs
    • Continuing to hire Sea to Sky humans and encourage their broader community passions
    • Selling the works of 40+ local Authors and 20+ Local Artists
    • Fulfilling over 500 customer special orders
    • Donating hundreds of dollars to schools and organizations
    • Grown their devoted online community to 10k and over 50+ 5-star Google reviews

GATHER LITERARY SOCIETY HIGHLIGHTS:

Small but mighty, this 2-year-old non-profit is largely volunteer driven, with community support and donations going directly toward books, programming, materials, and outreach. Fueled by the belief that “Maybe a Book Will Help,” Gather Literary Society makes literary arts accessible and approachable.

“The Free Book Fair [at Sta'7mes] helped give vulnerable learners access to beautiful books, sparking imagination, building confidence and reminding every child that they deserve the joy and possibilities that reading can bring.” – Lindsey Boersma, Teacher Librarian

This year, our non-profit has:

• Donated over 350 books locally (and lent out even more)
• Launched a FREE Book Fair Program - making the book fair experience equitable in schools)
• Grown the Inclusive Bookshelf Program – providing free access to robust lending libraries at even more daycares, schools, libraries and community organizations – allowing people to access books where they already spend their time
• Purposefully participated in in community events throughout Squamish
  • Squamish Pride, Brackendale Fall Fair, Squamish Farmers' Market, and Squamish Arts Festival, Squamish Together (and more)
• Brought free books, children's activities, and information to the broader community and integrating literacy into existing public gatherings
• Received community funding from local businesses and Foundations, validating and prioritizing the gap we are filling in our community

“Julie and her team have made Gather a special place for children and the adults who love reading with them and have reach far beyond the physical bookshop. Gather Literary Society is working with Canadian publishers to bring diverse, inclusive books into daycares, schools and other community spaces. Gather is building something needed and generous for Squamish.”

- Katrina Carol-Foster

Gather is grateful to be part of a community that values connection and creativity, and we hope to continue building on this work in the years ahead with the help of receiving this award!