Earlier this year, a much-beloved independent bookstore in Menlo Park, California closed, bowing to the same competitive pressures (from big chain booksellers and online retailers) that have taken out indie bookstores across the country. But in this case, the bookstore’s community didn’t sit idly by and mourn the passing – they passed the hat. “Local entrepreneurs developed a business plan to improve the store’s long-term standing and also invested cash… $500,000 was raised from 17 individuals, who each pledged at least $25,000 to become shareholders. About 370 local residents also signed up to volunteer time to help the store.” As a result, Kepler’s Books and Magazines will reopen for business this weekend.