Tenerife's Solican Bookstore, 13-Year Aid Hub, Closes
The Solican bookstore in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, a community hub that funded humanitarian aid by reselling used books, has closed after 13 years following the non-renewal of its contracts.
The Solican bookstore, a beloved community space in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, has closed its doors after 13 years, Radio Televisión Canaria (RTVC) reported this Thursday.
For over a decade, the establishment served as a cultural and social hub in Tenerife's capital, reselling used books to fund humanitarian aid projects.
Beyond making reading affordable with its low-priced books, Solican also sent medicines to Cuba and Venezuela, glasses to various African countries, and clothes to local families in need.
Its operations relied entirely on donations and volunteer efforts. "Our greatest strength was helping people with limited resources enjoy reading," Luis, one of the workers, told the public broadcaster. He explained that just a week ago, he and his colleagues learned their contracts for both their homes and the bookstore's premises would not be renewed.