A new chapter: The Book Rescuers opens massive used bookstore in Largo with over 100,000 books

the book rescuers’ newly opened store and warehouse in largo | the book rescuers

An encyclopedia of Greek mythology, recordings of wars from the frontlines, and children's books dating back to the 70s and beyond line the wooden shelves inside The Book Rescuers’ new 14,000-square-foot warehouse.

Husband and wife duo George and Sarah Brooks, who save over 10 tons (20,000 pounds) of books per week from the landfill, have relocated their massive book collection and store to 8325 Ulmerton Road in Largo.

The Book Rescuers, which is now open, is nearly quadruple the size of their previous 3,600-square-foot warehouse in Pinellas Park and features over 100,000 books.

The new store has shelves stretching over 3 miles long that are stocked with dozens of genres of books and literature | st. pete rising

The business has become popular for those looking to buy used books at dirt cheap prices—paperbacks sell for $2 and hardcovers sell for $3. Vintage books, signed books, and coffee table books sell for more. They also sell hundreds of CDs, DVDs, and vinyls for $1.

“We are blessed to be the hosts of this important mission, and grateful to have a location that we can tailor to the needs of the community that has pushed us to be able to do so,” the Brooks said to St. Pete Rising.

Although the store is in a soft opening mode until January’s grand opening, the Brooks and a handful of dedicated volunteers continue to move the massive book inventory from their former warehouse to the new Largo shop.

The CARVED-OUT nooks, which will soon have padding installed, will provide additional seating for readers | st. pete rising

They are also repurposing pages from old cooking books, nautical maps, comics, musician compositions, and other works as wallpaper that wraps around the warehouse.

Today, readers can lounge in a living room-like setting with mismatched donated furniture or sit inside one of the hidden nooks George has carved out between the aisles of shelves.

The full vision for the new home, once all the pieces come together, is to have a children's reading and education area, a stage to host performers and local authors, a full coffee and tea bar, as well as craft beer.

There’s a living room-like area with donated furniture where readers can espace into book and local authors can host events | st. pete rising

The Brooks will source the coffee from a nearby local roaster and the 16-tap craft beer selection from St. Pete's Overflow Brewing Co.

They are also preparing to debut a live online search system for readers looking for specific titles.

The new expanded store is debuting at a time when the Brooks continue to face financial uncertainties, but are relying on the community to continue to support their endeavor.

The store’s inventory vastly ranges with unique genres, including the paranormal and metaphysical to U.S. history | st. pete rising

“Without the community, we would've thrown in the towel back in February 2022 [due to debt]. Every time we have a hiccup that seems insurmountable the community has been by our side to ensure the mission continues,” the Brooks said.

“People have congratulated us, but the reality is they should be congratulating each other. Without our community, we wouldn't be here, and we will always be there for our community.”

However, with the new store lease and associated costs, the Brooks need additional financial support and have launched new promotions and a GoFundMe campaign.

Their fundraising goal is $60,000. To date, they have raised $25,646.

George and Sarah are also hoping to fill the funding gap with a new $60 per year subscription model.

Members can enjoy a long list of perks, such as waived online book pick fees, 5% discounts on all current purchases, and 10% in-store credit on their next purchase.

Members can also request out-of-stock titles and be first in line when the books become available.

repurposed pages from damaged books wrap around the store, unveiling our historical past and works of art | st. pete rising

Additionally, there is a new shared ownership model where loyal customers and team members can receive up to 30% equity in the company. More information on how to get involved can be found here.

The Book Rescuers is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The Brooks are currently seeking more volunteers to assist in stocking and other tasks.

Be sure to follow The Book Rescuers on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on the latest offerings and events.