Island Books gets new carpet | Community briefs

The Island Books store, 3014 78th Ave. S.E., will be replacing its carpet June 30-July 2.

The Island Books store, 3014 78th Ave. S.E., will be replaced its carpet June 30-July 2.

“We’ve been buying duct tape and Oriental rugs to cover up the problems,” store owner Roger Page said. “I got a push of encouragement from the landlord as well that said it was time to do this.”

Page sent out an email to all members of the Island Books email list, asking for volunteers to help out with the project by moving books and shelves so the old carpet can be taken out and the new one put in. He said the response was “overwhelming,” as he heard back from about 130 people. No new volunteers are needed at this time.

“Several longtime customers of the store, older women, said they couldn’t carry the 50-pound boxes, but they volunteered their sons-in-law,” Page said. “It was very sweet.”

Page said he’s not sure how it’s all going to work out, but he looks forward to it. The store will remain open for business during the day, as work will go on in the early morning and late afternoon. Pictures will be included of the work once it begins.