The Bright Lights Book Project: Partnering with the Bleeding Heart Brewery
Contributed by Alys Culhane
The Bright Lights Book Project has been in existence now for five years and a nonprofit for three. We've been located in the former banquet room of the historic Eagle Hotel for two years.
Early on, I was told often about the importance of partnerships—alliances with corporate and nonprofit entities strengthen bonds, create community, and lead to organizational growth.
At the time, this sounded nice but felt abstract. Then I watched nonprofits like Kid’s Kupboard thrive and realized partnerships were key to their success.
I also learned partnerships don’t just happen—board members and executive directors have to work at it. That said, some happen serendipitously.
A few weeks ago, I was sorting books at what we now call the BLBP Literacy Center when a passerby stopped in. After I explained the project, she mentioned that the nearby Bleeding Heart Brewery had a bookcase that might need books.
I drove over right away. It was Monday—and the brewery was closed. I went around back, opened a large metal door, and stepped inside. Two individuals sat at a table with beers in hand, clearly deep in discussion.
I considered leaving, but reminded myself I’d come this far—and that sharing books with brewery patrons was worth the momentary awkwardness.
So I launched into my elevator speech: “We envision the power of literacy to change lives. We are doing this by making books accessible to young and old, locally and statewide. I just heard that you have a bookcase for customers. Would you like us to stock it?”
Co-owner Zack Lamphier said the bookcase was full—but I was welcome to fill it. Then I noticed someone else at the table—AK Nomad Cinematics owner Logan Dillinger.
Logan and I go way back. His wry humor shows up in his films Sudsy Slim Rides Again and The Cremation of Sam Magee. He’s also filmed me distributing books in various places.
“Hey Alys,” he said, “We’re making a podcast.”
I replied, “Hey, you need to come and check out our place.” (He hadn’t yet visited the Literacy Center.)
I thanked Zack and his co-owner Stefan Marty, and started to leave—accidentally walking into a phone booth. Zack pointed to the right door, and I exited with a laugh.
Once outside, I realized I hadn’t given them BLBP bookmarks. I grabbed some from the car and returned, only to find the door locked. I slipped them underneath and left.
The next evening, Logan sent me the full podcast. After I’d left, Stefan had commented, “Nice lady, she’s on a mission.” Both men were surprised to see the bookmarks slide in under the door. Zack picked them up, and they examined them together.
Mission accomplished.
I didn’t realize at the time, but I had inadvertently planted the seeds for a new partnership. The next day, I returned (during open hours) and entered through the front. Turns out Zack had underestimated their shelf space—between the two bookcases, they took six bins of books.
Logan hinted that I might make cameo appearances in future Bleeding Heart Brewery podcasts. I'm looking forward to it—because together, both the BLBP and Bleeding Heart Brewery will gain exposure and move closer to our shared goal: building a stronger sense of community.
You can see Bleeding Heart Brewery’s first podcast episode, “The Origin Story,” on YouTube. Learn more about the Bright Lights Book Project at brightlightsbookproject.org.