It looks like this past weekend was less than stellar for Lawn Gnome Publishing. On Valentine's Day, the store's owner, Aaron Hopkins-Johnson, revealed some rather unfortunate news on his Facebook page: "The store was burglarized last night. Electronics, jewelry, window, the cash till and employees' pay are gone. I feel absolutely devastated and sick. But we aren't going to give up. Who robs a bookstore?"
Since then, Hopkins-Johnson has turned to the community to help get his Roosevelt Row business back on its feet.
See also: Roosevelt Row CDC to Host Visioning Launch Party at The Nash in Phoenix
In an effort to replace the stolen electronics, merchandise, and money, as well as raise funds for a security system to prevent similar crimes from occurring again, community members have created a cash mob event on Facebook. The ongoing event encourages locals to spend some of their much-appreciated cash at the store (Lawn Gnome's inventory of books seems well intact).
Funds are also being accepted anonymously through PayPal on the store's website. For those who can't spare the cash, Lawn Gnome is accepting book donations in person or through the mail at:
ATTN: Stop Gnome Theft Campaign Lawn Gnome Publishing 905 N. 5th St. Phoenix, AZ 85004
For more information and updates on Lawn Gnome's status, visit lawngnomepublishing.com.
Editor's note: This post has been modified from its original version.
