There’s no denying that there is magic to buying your books from bookstores. The environment that each bookstore produces for its clients is meant to create a safe space for readers to browse and connect with the books and communities around them. There is no matching the value of a good bookstore, but what makes indie bookstores much more valuable than their competitor chain bookstores?
What is an Indie Bookstore?
Indie bookstores are independent bookstores that are not part of a chain, which makes them unique to each location they reside in. Independent bookstores tend to be run by families or locals who share a love for books and want to give back to the readers in their communities.
These stores are constantly giving back, as purchasing from independent stores leads to money going back into their communities through taxes and payrolls. These types of bookstores also value community, leading to local events, charities, and celebrations for the public to join. These environments create connections for readers with their books, and without them, we wouldn’t be able to grow the literature community for all ages.
How are They Different from Chain Bookstores?
While chains may seem more accessible due to their influx in locations, indie bookstores can be found everywhere if you seek them out. While chain bookstores hold their own communities, independent bookstores have a unique sense of community as they bring in locals and the values of the locations they reside in. Bookstores communities are important to their areas as they encourage locals participate in the joys of reading and the other resources these small bookstores have to offer.
Unlike chain bookstores, indie bookstores cater to their audience’s desires and hobbies. Many stores find their niche by selling more than just books, whether they cater to crystal collectors, coffee drinkers, flower lovers, or other hobbies that readers enjoy. They may also host events for locals to meet their fellow town or city readers, which brings in money to support the store.
What are Ways to Support Indie Bookstores?
If you’ve been swayed by the value of indie bookstores, but don’t know to support them, here are a few ideas to get you started.
Go to Your Local One!
If you’re used to going to the same bookstore, check out what other ones are around your location. If available, some stores have websites that will tell you store information such as store hours and events so you can get involved with their bookstore community. You can also support indie bookstores by visiting the local ones in places you are visiting, such as when you are on vacation. Spending your money on as little as one book can be a great way to support independent bookstores that work hard to make books accessible to their communities.
Follow Them on Social Media
Social media is essential in marketing, and many bookstores have taken advantage of this. See if any of your potential bookstores have social media accounts you can follow and engage with to see any updates and events that come up. This is a great way to get to know what type of bookstore they are, get involved with their online community, and engage in their content to show support that can help them reach a broad audience.
Shop on Indie Book Websites
Websites like Bookshop.org and IndieBound.org allow you to find local indie bookstores and purchase books on their websites to help them compete with bigger companies. IndieBound.org, created by the American Bookseller Association, promotes independent bookstores and authors to help you find your next read. Visit their website and search for your location to find bookstores in your area. Bookshop.org lets you pick which bookstores you want to support, and by purchasing books through the Bookshop website, profits go towards your selected bookstore.
Indie bookstores are so valuable to the communities they belong in as they bring books to people, build community, and give back to their communities. There are many ways you can support your local bookstore, even from the comfort of your own home, but nothing beats the environment of a bookstore built out of a collective love for books. Don’t miss out on the joys that indie bookstores will bring to you and the people around you.
Looking for some indie bookstore recommendations? Click here.
If you are looking for some books to read, check out our Bookstr Team Recommendations bookshelf on Bookshop.org.
