Ready your book-buying budgets, scribes: Independent Bookstore Day is almost upon us. Saturday, April 27 is the date for 2019 celebration.
Here’s why writers should care (and how they can celebrate).
What’s Independent Bookstore Day?
It’s a national celebration of independent bookstores on the last Saturday in April.
So, what, is it just like a hashtag on social media?
Nope! In a nation exhausted by nonsensical “national days” (National Baked Scallop Day! National Foam Rolling Day!), Independent Bookstore Day is a breath of fresh air. For one, it has a staff. And a website. And although it’s produced by the Northern California Independent Booksellers Association, it’s a nation-wide event with hundreds of indie bookstores participating around the country.
Define “participate.”
Well, it varies by location, but here’s the big draw: Each year, publishers release special material (books, literary art, etc.) exclusively for Independent Bookstore Day. Can’t get ’em on Amazon. Can’t get ’em at Wal-Mart. Customers have to go to their local indie bookstore to get them.
Bookstores often have snacks, games, music, or other fun live things going on in addition to the special-edition material.
So what are publishers offering for 2019?
See the 2019 Independent Bookstore Day catalog here.
Why should writers care about IBD?
Writers should care about independent bookstores, period! Indie stores are staffed by book lovers who can press your books into the hands of customers, who can pen lovely things about your work on the “Our staff recommends…” endcap. Bookstores also regularly host events for and by the literary community. They’re national treasures, and you should support them.
Last year indie bookstores reported increased sales of 200%. That’s a big boost for a small store. Tell your friends, share the news on social media, and go visit a bookstore yourself.
How do I know if my local bookstore is participating?
Here’s a handy map where you can find a participating store near you. Happy shopping – and happy reading!
