Seattle Book Community Raises Funds for Boston Bombing Victims

Staff members of University Book Store show their support for Boston

Last week, Seattle’s University Book Store partnered with local author Mary Jane Beaufrand to hold an in-store fundraiser for victims of the Boston Marathon bombings. The All for Boston Fundraiser was inspired in part by one victim in particular who is known throughout the Seattle bookselling community. Adrianne Haslet-Davis, the daughter of Chauni Haslet, the former owner of Seattle’s All For Kids Books & Music, is a dance teacher in Boston who lost her left foot and part of her leg in the bombings. Her husband, Adam, was also injured with shrapnel.

Beaufrand, who was a staff member at All For Kids Books at the beginning of her career, worked with University Book Store staff to organize the event, spreading the word through online communications with customers, social media, and word of mouth. She organized the extensive guest list, coordinated the details, and donated time and attention “to make this a very successful effort,” said University Book Store’s events coordinator, Eileen Harte.

More than 100 people attended the event, which included readings and signings by many local authors. The store served wine and food while customers were able to mingle with authors and guests.

“The tone was optimistic and enthusiastic,” said Harte. “Our purpose was to raise money and gather together as a community to acknowledge our support of the tragic event in Boston.”

Ten percent of the event’s sales were split between Adrianne’s Fund and One Fund Boston. Several customers made donations above and beyond the cost of their purchases, said Harte, who was pleased with the turnout and contributions that were made.

Before the event, Beaufrand had also been taking photos of people across the Pacific Northwest holding a sign that reads “All for Boston,” and posting them on Facebook to lift the spirit of those on the other side of the country who were affected by the tragedy.