A western suburbs book collective is paying tribute to bashed Altona bookshop owner Jill Brookes.
A book swap will be held at Eco Laundry in Harrington Square, the site of the former West Side Stories bookshop where Ms Brookes was assaulted on July 20, 2012.
Wild Books Collective – made up of artists Gennivieve Collier, Stephen Louis and Susan Miller – said the book swap was a way for the community to reclaim the site.
“We felt Jill had a really galvanising effect on the community, opening the bookshop, and it became a bit of a hub for people moving into the area and for long-term residents of that part of Altona,” Mr Louis said.
“The shop was really quite vital in the community and when Jill was attacked and the shop closed, something was lost.
“The couple who opened the laundromat both have a really strong sense of community and they’re right behind the show [book swap].
“It’s a reminder of how businesses can support the community on more than a buyer-seller basis.
‘‘Part of the rationale is to recreate another aspect of Jill’s shop.
“It’s a ‘pure book swap’ which means no money will change hands.”
The book swap is from 10am-3pm on Saturday and people are invited to bring their pre-loved books and fold an origami paper crane to hang in the window as a tribute to Ms Brookes.
Victoria Police have offered a $100,000 reward for information leading to a conviction in the case. Call Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 or visit crimestoppers.com.au
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