Support Independent Bookstores
When you buy books through our recommendations, you're not just getting something great to read—you're supporting the local bookstores that make literary culture thrive.
Why Independent Bookstores Matter
Independent bookstores are the heart of literary communities. They're the places where passionate booksellers hand-select inventory, where book clubs gather, where authors do readings, and where serendipitous book discoveries happen every day.
Our Partnership with Bookshop.org
How It Works
When you purchase books through our Bookshop.org links:
- You pay the same price as other major retailers—no markup, no hidden fees
- Independent bookstores earn support through Bookshop.org's profit-sharing program
- We earn a small commission that keeps our service free for everyone
- Local literary communities get stronger with every purchase
Why We Chose Bookshop.org
We could have partnered with any book retailer, but Bookshop.org's mission aligns perfectly with ours:
- They exist to support indie bookstores rather than replace them
- They're transparent about how money flows to local stores
- They offer the same selection and prices as major competitors
- They're a certified B Corporation committed to social and environmental responsibility
- They understand that bookstores are about community, not just commerce
The Impact of Your Purchases
Real Support for Real Bookstores
Since launching in 2020, Bookshop.org has contributed over $24 million to independent bookstores nationwide. When you buy through our links, you become part of this impact.
How the Money Flows
For every book sold through Bookshop.org:
- 10% goes to the pool supporting independent bookstores
- Additional percentages go directly to specific partner stores
- Your purchase helps fund inventory, staff wages, and community events
- Local economies benefit from money staying in communities
More Than Just Sales
Your purchases help independent bookstores:
- Keep their doors open in an increasingly challenging retail environment
- Host community events like book clubs, author readings, and literary discussions
- Employ passionate booksellers who provide personalized recommendations
- Curate unique inventory that reflects local interests and diverse voices
- Serve as cultural hubs that bring communities together around books
What Makes Independent Bookstores Special
Personal Service You Can't Algorithm
Independent bookstore staff don't just process transactions—they:
- Know their inventory intimately and can suggest books you'd never find online
- Listen to your preferences and match them with perfect recommendations
- Introduce you to new authors and genres you might not discover otherwise
- Create reading experiences tailored to your interests and mood
- Build relationships that enhance your love of books over time
Community Centers for Book Lovers
Independent bookstores serve as:
- Gathering spaces for book clubs and literary discussions
- Venues for author events and book launches
- Supporters of local authors and regional literature
- Champions of diverse voices often overlooked by major chains
- Cultural anchors that make neighborhoods more vibrant and interesting
Curation Over Algorithm
While online retailers use algorithms to suggest books, independent bookstores offer:
- Human curation based on genuine reading experience
- Staff picks from people who read widely and thoughtfully
- Local relevance reflecting community interests and needs
- Serendipitous discovery through browsing carefully selected shelves
- Quality over quantity in inventory choices
Beyond Purchasing: Other Ways to Support
Shop Local When Possible
While we partner with Bookshop.org for online convenience, nothing beats shopping directly at your local independent bookstore when you can. They offer:
- Immediate gratification - take your book home today
- Personal service - face-to-face recommendations and conversations
- Community connection - support your neighbors and local economy
- Unique atmosphere - the irreplaceable experience of browsing physical shelves
Find Your Local Store
Use Bookshop.org's store finder or IndieBound.org to locate independent bookstores near you.
Other Ways to Help
- Attend events at your local bookstore
- Join book clubs they host or sponsor
- Follow them on social media and share their posts
- Buy gift cards to give as presents
- Recommend them to friends who love books
- Leave positive reviews online to boost their visibility
The Bigger Picture: Why This Matters
Literary Diversity and Discovery
Independent bookstores:
- Champion diverse voices that might not get major marketing budgets
- Support emerging authors before they become bestsellers
- Preserve literary culture by valuing quality over pure commercial appeal
- Create pathways for readers to discover books they'd never find otherwise
Community and Connection
In an increasingly digital world, independent bookstores provide:
- Physical gathering spaces for book lovers to connect
- Local cultural programming that enriches communities
- Employment opportunities for people passionate about books
- Anchor businesses that make neighborhoods more walkable and interesting
Economic Impact
Supporting independent bookstores means:
- Keeping money local instead of flowing to distant corporations
- Supporting small business entrepreneurship and local ownership
- Contributing to walkable neighborhoods that benefit everyone
- Maintaining competitive diversity in the retail landscape
Your Role in the Story
Every Purchase Matters
When you buy books through our Bookshop.org links, you're making a choice that ripples outward:
- You get a great book to read
- We can keep providing free recommendations
- Independent bookstores receive financial support
- Local literary communities grow stronger
- The broader culture of reading and discovery thrives
Part of a Movement
You're joining thousands of readers who believe that:
- Books are more than products - they're culture, community, and connection
- Local businesses matter - they make communities unique and vibrant
- Personal service beats algorithms - human recommendations create better discoveries
- Literary culture needs support - it doesn't sustain itself automatically
Thank You for Supporting Independent Bookstores
Whether you buy through our links, shop directly at local stores, or simply spread the word about the importance of independent bookstores, you're helping preserve something irreplaceable.
Independent bookstores are where book culture lives and breathes. They're where the next generation of readers is cultivated, where literary communities gather, and where the magic of book discovery happens every day.
By choosing to support them, you're not just buying books—you're investing in the future of reading itself.