The importance of independent bookstores and how to support them
Independent bookstores are magical places. Walking through their doors is like entering a portal to new possibilities, where you can stumble upon the unexpected, including the bookstore cat.
But they need our help. Without support, we could lose our indie bookstores and all they have to offer.
With the availability of online mega-retailers and larger bookstore chains, why do independent bookstores matter so much?
Three reasons why independent bookstores matter
1. Help to grow the local economy
Shopping locally is likely to be a lockdown legacy.
According to a 2021 Barclaycard survey, 91 per cent of those who shopped locally during the pandemic say they will continue to do so.
As independent bookstores are often owned and run by local people, the money made from sales and given as wages will go back into the local economy.
2. Support the local community
Independent bookstores provide a safe space for readers, reading groups, and local events. Some support a particular social purpose or cause, such as local school reading programmes.
They may also host book events where you can meet authors. In the flesh!
3. Provide a personalised, independent service
Each independent bookstore offers something a little different.
A second-hand bookstore is a treasure trove of pre-loved books awaiting rediscovery.
The Rare and Antiquarian bookstore houses old editions of popular titles or out-of-print books.
Other independent bookstores may specialize in speculative fiction, poetry, or non-fiction.
As these bookstores are independent, they can focus on what’s important to them and their customers, who also benefit from the bookseller's knowledge.
That’s three great reasons why we need to keep our independent bookstores around.
So, how can we help them survive and thrive?
How to support independent bookstores
The obvious way to support a local or favorite independent bookstore is to visit in person and buy from them. If you can’t visit the brick-and-mortar bookstore, there are other things you can do.
Buy
Most bookstores have a website where you can buy from them directly or through their chosen online retailer. On the website, you can also find out their telephone number or email address, so you can get in touch to ask about something you want and if they can deliver it to you.
Participate
Whether it’s a book launch or a virtual reading from an author, online events are another way bookstores build community. To learn more about upcoming events, you can subscribe to the bookstore newsletter or visit their website to read their bookstore blog or news section.
Engage
Social media has become a popular space for direct engagement and promotion of events or giveaways. Following your favorite bookstore online means you can reshare their messages, leave a comment, and join in on the conversation.
Interact
Independent booksellers write blogs to promote new stock or provide some knowledge on a particular subject. Interacting with blogs also helps build the community, starting conversations that you can continue when you visit the bookstore. You can also share the blog posts with friends and family, or on your social media platform of choice.
No town without a bookstore
The high streets and main streets of towns and cities are improved and set apart by the presence of an independent bookstore. They are a beacon to the bookish, a place for community, and they are run by people who actively promote reading for pleasure.
So support your local independent bookstore today.
If you own a bookstore and you’re looking to increase your online presence, I have a blog post for that.
Read the benefits of a bookstore blog and what to write to boost your bookstore blog.