5082-5088 State Highway 28
Cooperstown, NY 13326

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Thrift store history:

In the early 1980s the need for some kind of thrift store in Cooperstown was recognized by Mrs. Arthur (Bunny) Laidlaw.  As a board member of the Susquehanna SPCA, she was concerned about the necessity of fund raising to support the important activities of the organization and the limited earning potential of bake sales and sidewalk sales.  Thus, Mrs. Laidlaw conceived the idea of the Better Exchange Thrift Store to support the activities of the Susquehanna SPCA and to serve the community.

After an extensive search for a suitable location, the shop was opened.  During the early years, the shop occupied various locations on Main Street, ending its downtown tenure in the small house on Chestnut Street presently serving as the Glimmerglass Opera ticket office. The Better Exchange quickly outgrew that location and a building was constructed across the parking lot from the Susquehanna SPCA where the shop is located today.

The shop is staffed entirely by a crew of more than 30 volunteers, some of whom have been with the organization for as long as 20 years.  Their dedication and cheerful service are exemplary and very important to the success of the thrift shop. Please take a minute to thank them when you visit the shop.

The Better Exchange (now known as the New Leash on Life Thrift Shop) is a vital part of the continued service provided by the Susquehanna SPCA. It generates almost 40% of the income for the operation of the shelter.  The organization is most grateful to the many people who donate used items for sale at the shop and to the shoppers themselves. Every cent of profit from the shop goes directly to the care and housing of the animals in the shelter.