TAVISTOCK?s new mecca for book and music lovers has raised enough money in its first few months of trading to supply three huge new water systems in countries desperate for clean supplies. Oxfam is the largest retailer of second-hand books and music in Europe ? and the charity?s new shop in North Street has become a runaway success, according to manager Jacqui Theobald. She said: ?Since we opened in September we?ve had an absolutely fabulous response from people in Tavistock. ?The shop isn?t exactly in an obvious place but it?s proved hugely successful ? we?ve had lots of support, both in terms of donated gifts and, of course, gifts of time.? Jacqui said the bookshop stocks a huge range of books on every subject, from sport and leisure to hobbies, romantic fiction and educational literature. Similarly, the music on offer covers just about every genre. All the stock has been donated locally by supporters of Oxfam. ?The community is really responsible for the shop?s success,? said Jacqui. ?We reached the stage in the Market Street shop where we just couldn?t cope with any more stock, so we were able to take the opportunity to develop in another area. ?It?s been a huge learning curve for us all because bookshops are obviously very different to our general shop, but everybody has said really positive things ? it?s been hard work but it?s great.? The Oxfam book and music shop is staffed by volunteers and is open Monday to Saturday, between 9am and 4.30pm. The shop welcomes all donations of clean, saleable books of all descriptions, plus records, CDs and cassettes. Staff would also love to hear from anyone who would like to donate a few hours to help in the shop. For more information, call Jacqui Theobald on 01822 613901 or 616273.
