February 18, 2015

Pre-loved books supporting students

Alumni Bookshop: UOW Used Books to reopen at a new location on Monday 23 February.

Christine Thompson is a regular volunteer at the Bookshop and Chair of the alumni Campus Chapter.

Altruism runs deep among the group of volunteers from the alumni Campus Chapter who run Alumni Bookshop: UOW Used Books, helping raise funds for students in need or to reward high-achievers.

Reopening near Little Chimneys cafe, customers can now buy a book and enjoy reading over a warm brew in the dappled sunshine of Cafe Courtyard knowing that their purchase will provide support to UOW students.

Natasha Josifovski, a psychology student who was awarded a scholarship last year, knows firsthand the value the generosity of others adds to her ability to complete her degree.

“Without this scholarship and the financial support it provides I wouldn’t be able to remain at university,” Natasha said when accepting her scholarship.

Christine Thompson, a Bachelor of Commerce (Economics) graduate from 1973, has been volunteering at the bookshop for seven years.

"It is rewarding when students or staff leave the bookshop happy with what they have found. Volunteering in the UOW community is such a pleasure, meeting people from all corners of Australia and the world. Our volunteers come from all sorts of work and study backgrounds yet we share a common enjoyment in seeing happy smiles from our customers, our scholarship holders and our prize winners," Christine said.

Dubbed the 'book adoption centre' by customers, it is a charming, warm and friendly place to visit, made so by the welcoming faces of volunteers and the lovable resident pooch, mini-foxy Maddy.

"The staff is always very welcoming and extremely helpful. We should all support this valuable, primarily volunteer run service. I also love the sweet little doggie greeting party," Karlie Donaldson said in her review of the bookshop on their Facebook page.

Jade Andrews wrote: "A group of hardworking and dedicated volunteers that make life for students easier. Thank you so very much, your support is very much appreciated."

All book donations and customers, from students and staff, through to the general community, are welcome,

Alumni Bookshop: UOW Used Books
Opening times: Monday to Thursday 10.30am to 2.30pm during session
Where: Building 15.G17