What is a Cooperative?
Cooperatives are businesses owned and controlled by the people who use them. Cooperatives differ from other businesses because they are member owned and operate for the benefit of members, rather than earn profits for investors. Like other businesses, most cooperatives are incorporated under State law.
In 1966 the International Cooperative Alliance adopted seven principles as guidelines for cooperatives. They reflect the spirit in which cooperatives were first formed and they are strongly represented in the day-to-day operations:
- Voluntary and open membership
- Democratic member control
- Member economic participation
- Autonomy and independence
- Education, training, and information
- Cooperation among cooperatives
- Concern for community
Handwork, the Cooperative
Our Membership
Our members are all local craftspeople and artists. Some of us are full-time craftspeople, some are employed in other fields and do our craft part-time. Most of us live within a 15-mile radius of Ithaca, NY. We make the items you see in our store (though we also buy from other artisans in the US and Canada, to offer our customers a wider selection of goods).
Members are required to work in the store 2 days a month (3 in December). Our "sales clerks" are actually working craftspeople and artists, so don't hesitate to ask us about our work. We also try to learn as much as possible about our fellow members' work to assist you with your purchase.
We discuss business matters at monthly meetings, where decisions are made democratically by member votes. It is at these meetings that new applicants are considered for membership. The work of potential members is considered with regard to its quality, available space in the store, and how it complements our current stock.
