An Invitation to Volunteer with the Westport Book Shop Helped Shift My Mindset (and My Health)

I set out to help the nonprofit’s mission—and ended up helping myself.

The Search for a New Chapter

A year ago, I found myself at a difficult crossroads.

I had spent years focused solely on work, slogging through some toxic corporate environments. The stress and anxiety took a toll on my health.

When I was laid off, I suddenly had a lot of time on my hands - and very little direction. I spent a lot of time in my apartment, feeling disconnected and unsure of how to rewrite my future.

I decided to start with something small: spring cleaning. I had a stack of gently used books and was looked for a place to donate them where they might do some good.

That search led me to The Westport Library’s book donation annex.

From Donor to Volunteer

I went to the donation center just to drop off my books to support the Westport Book Shop’s mission, one close to my heart. But seeing the operation—the rows of stories waiting for new homes, and the hum of activity—sparked my interest.

I didn't just want to leave my books; I wanted to see where they were going.

I started volunteering there, sorting through donations. As I learned more about them, and they learned more about me, I found myself among the greater non-profit that was composed of the Big Book Sale Events and the Westport Book Shop.

It wasn't a magic cure for my stress, but it was a much-needed change of pace. It got me out of the apartment and into a room with like-minded, wonderful people.

For the first time in a long while, I found myself excited about being creative, applying my marketing background to help share their mission. It felt good to get back to basics, and find joy in a shared project.

The Science of a Community Mindset

A recent New York Times article really resonated with my experience. It noted that our mindset regarding purpose and community connection can significantly impact our longevity, and how we age.

Research suggests that staying socially engaged and having a reason to get out the door isn't just a "nice to do" — it’s a vital part of staying healthy.

Aging well isn’t about a gym membership; for me, it was about getting out of my own head and into my community. I needed to get back to basics. I needed to find what brought me joy.

Sorting books may seem simple, but the sense of joyful giving it sparked in me helped fill my heart and spirit at a time when I really needed it.

Join Us at The Westport Library

Our biggest event of the year, the Big Spring Book Sale (May 15–18), is right around the corner, and we would love for you to be a part of it. Whether you are looking for a way to reconnect with the community or just want to spend a few hours surrounded by books and great people, there’s a spot for you.

We need volunteers to help with:

• Set-up (Wednesday & Thursday 5/13-5/14): Helping prep the library.

• During the Sale: Assisting our neighbors in finding their next great read.

• Pack-up (Monday late afternoon): Closing out another successful chapter.

Click Here to Volunteer With Me!

Spring Cleaning Your Shelves?

Meanwhile, if you have books that need a new home, there is always time to donate. Bring them to our book donation center in The Westport Library’s upper parking lot at 20 Jesup Road Monday through Saturday between 9am & 4pm.

Volunteering changed the direction of my life. It gave me a community, a creative outlet, and a healthier mindset. This May, I hope you’ll join us - to shop, to donate, or to volunteer.

Let's find what brings us joy, together.