There was a time, not too long ago, that every town and city had at least one bookstore to call their own. But that time has long since passed, thanks to the Amazons and Barnes and Nobles of the world.
Yesterday was Independent Bookstore Day.
Below are the reasons to shop at an independent bookstore.
- You support the community, in addition to the specific store. The rate of success for small businesses (pre-Covid-19) are disheartening at best. Within ten years of opening, 70% of them will close. These days, who knows how many will be able to keep their doors open?
- It is an opportunity to get out of the house. As much as I appreciate the convenience of ordering online, there is no joy in that. Over the last few years, I have gotten together with friends for several bookstore crawls. I can’t think of a better way to spend a day than books, friends, and a good walk.
- Many of these stores highlight local authors and stories that add flavors to the story of the area.
- There are more than books to be found within their walls. Some stores have opened small cafes, others host events and classes.
- They are gathering places. Not just for the purpose of the product that will be purchased, but for the opportunity to meet and connect with other bibliophiles.
Two of my favorite bookstores in New York City are Books Are Magic and Strand Bookstore.
Readers, do you have a preferred independent bookstore near you? Feel free to share them on the comments below.
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Writergurlny 
I actually have two that nearby. Park Road Books is in my hometown of Charlotte- they are extremely amazing at recommending books. They are the ones who recommended A Darker Shade of Magic- good recommendation because Shades of Magic is an incredible series.
Then there is Malaprops in Asheville- they have a blind date section- meaning the books are wrapped up in brown paper and all you see are adjectives: you choose your book based on the adjectives
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