For just arriving expats, Roundabout is an organization uniting volunteers in China to help those in need. Connecting the interested parties, Roundabout acts as a donation and distribution center, and also has a fundraising retail store. It all began in 2008 by Leslie Simson, who wanted to change the prevalent practice of throwing away tons of useful things in today’s consumers’ world. Now, the organization can either directly pass on the donations, or resell them at different events, or in a store.
The Roundabout community is very inclusive in who they help: children in poverty, elderly people, women in need, and those suffering from mental and physical illnesses. Another crucial part of their campaign is connecting potential donors with those who need transplants.
The Roundabout Book Fair is held on a regular basis at the British School of Beijing (BSB), located in Shunyi. The event attracts not only the school’s students and their parents, but also many newcomers. The donated books are sold and all the proceeds go to charity. The one that took place last August was intended to help two children battling leukemia, and raised as much as RMB 203,946. The organizers hope that this year’s event will be even more successful. Books in all different languages with genres from fairy tales for kids to romances and non-fiction literature for adults are available for purchase. Prices are RMB 20 for hardbacks, RMB 10 for paperback, and RMB 1 for kid’s books.
Roundabout Book Fair, August 27 – September 3
All ages. Free admission. On Saturday August 27, 10am-3pm, not open on Sunday. Monday through Friday August 29 – September 2 from 3-4.30pm. British School of Beijing, Shunyi, 北京英国学校 South Side, 9 An Hua Street Shunyi District (fhm-wob@t-online.de, WeChat: Friederike197) (顺义区天竺开发区安华街9号南院)
Photos: roundaboutchina.com
