Over the last four decades, Never Ending Books (NEB), a collective of artists and bookworms, ran a free bookstore and community venue at 810/812 State Street in New Haven, CT. In December of 2020, Roger, the last man standing, announced he would close the shop due to pandemic related financial pressures. A group of devoted NEB enthusiasts rallied around the space, raised the funds to keep it open, and picked up the lease. . With guidance from Roger and deep commitment to the original Never Ending Books ethos of (literally) free expression, we have continued to provide New Haven with free books, live music, and a special space to BE.
Since reopening in June 2021 we have expanded hours from a few inconsistent, improvised times each month to regular weekly shop hours, hosted over 80 community events, and organized 7 art installations. We have provided easy access to artists and performers to have an outlet for their creative pursuits and connect with their community. We’ve also begun the process of incorporating as a full-fledged 501(c)3 nonprofit, which offers us more ways to engage with the Connecticut arts community and helps to ensure this project remains sustainable — in part by allowing us to participate in The Great Give.
Volume Two is volunteer run and supported by donations from the community. You are who keeps our doors open and who keeps our sets weird. Funds raised allow us to stay open and stay accessible as a space for creative practice and comradery. We encourage you to donate today and tell others why you love Volume Two!
