LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ / Press Release) – The Lexington Habitat ReStore has been a staple for bargain hunters in Lexington for 20 years – but it’s also become an unexpected hot spot for readers! The store’s books and media department recently surpassed half a million dollars in lifetime sales.

What makes this milestone special is not just that it was achieved through donations of books, vinyl records and other media. At ReStore, it’s all about the big picture.

“Our mission is to bring people together to build homes, communities and hope.” says Rachel Childress, CEO of Lexington Habitat. “This money was raised, dollar for dollar, by thousands of people in our community who donated books, made purchases or volunteered in the book aisle. It’s a great example of how, when we all come together and participate, it all adds up to have an incredible impact. “

Net proceeds from the ReStore benefit Lexington Habitat for Humanity. This support helps create affordable housing opportunities for low-income people through services such as new home construction, home repairs and home ownership courses. The funds raised by this department alone are estimated to be approximately the cost of building four new Lexington Habitat homes.

The book department is run entirely by community volunteers who take the mission to heart.

“The book department started out on a small scale, but as more and more people learned that the ReStore includes a wide variety of books and media at incredibly attractive prices, donations have increased dramatically,” said Tom Little, longtime Lexington Habitat supporter and book leader. department volunteers. “All titles are sorted by genre and it’s easy for our buyers to find what they’re looking for. We have everything from children’s books to rare and collectable books. It is very gratifying for all of us to know that our efforts ultimately result in quality homes for deserving families in Lexington.

Mark Little, director of ReStore, echoed this sentiment. “Last night there were several children in Lexington sleeping in safe, warm and stable homes. These children will have a stability in their childhood that is truly only offered through home ownership, and they will be on the very first steps in creating generational security for their families. Thanks to the people who love and contribute to this book department.

The ReStore is looking for donations of new and slightly used items as well as volunteers to join them.

For more information on how to get involved, visit www.lexingtonrestore.com (click here), or shop in the ReStore Wednesday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 451 Southland Drive in Lexington.