In difficult times, many of us gravitate toward resources and actions that help alleviate uncertainty. Sometimes this might look like caring for our mental health, and other times like joining protests or voting. No matter how small the action may feel, we can have an impact.
We at Libro.fm are committed to supporting independent bookshops because doing so benefits local communities in ways we might not even realize. Not only does the money we spend recirculate within our community, funding important resources and policies, but also helps build a more equitable world.
There are plenty of ways to get involved on a local level that can create broader change. Read on for 10 suggestions, and let us know in the comments how you like to support your community!
1. Visit a local bookshop
Independent bookshops are not only spaces for book lovers, but for everyone! From providing important stories to community members of all ages, to hosting events and clubs, they often mirror the heart and soul of neighborhoods.
In addition to purchasing books from your indie bookshop when able, especially over large chains and mega-retailers, we can support them by simply thanking a bookseller for the work they do everyday to create such a vibrant community space.
2. Purchase from a local store vs. ordering online
Although a certain mega-retailer has made it all too easy and familiar to order anything from groceries to medicine online thanks to promises of fast shipping and low prices, supporting small businesses in our community instead with our day to day necessities when we’re able has a real impact. Our sale taxes recirculate, and we’re helping provide more local jobs (not to mention benefiting the environment!). And if we can’t visit them in person, see if they deliver.
3. Support your favorite small businesses online
Whether your favorite indie bookshop, cafe, or other small business, there are many ways to support them online, especially as many are forced to compete with larger chains that have the resources to pay for ads.
Follow them on social media and engage with their posts, sign up for their email newsletter, leave a review, and share why you love them on your social channels. Monetary support isn’t the only type that counts!
4. Libro.fm
Unlike Amazon-owned Audible, Libro.fm audiobooks support the independent bookshop of your choice, meaning you’re helping your local community thrive. When you start a membership, purchase credits, buy audiobooks à la carte, refer a friend, or even encourage your company to sign up for Libro.fm for Business, all of these actions directly support small businesses.
5. Sign up for a library card
Not only does a library card give you access to free (!) books, but also magazines, streaming services, and plenty more. Many libraries offer gratis access to local museums, host cooking classes and arts and crafts courses, offer free certification training, language programs, and author events.
When we sign up for a library card, we show our local government to invest in and fund our library. Checking out books, using their meeting rooms, and utilizing their wealth of resources all further help demonstrate their need for funding.
6. Get involved civically
There are plenty of ways to get involved civically. We can run for office, campaign for politicians, vote, and encourage others to do the same.
Voting at a local level (in addition to a state and federal) is a great way to assert our voice and make a difference. We can have a say in everything from the local school systems to transportation routes. If you’re in the U.S., learn more about registering to vote, your voting rights, and what’s on your ballot using our voting hub!
7. Pop books into a Little Free Library
You’ve likely seen a Little Free Library before, whether in your local community or while traveling. Essentially, the point is to leave a book and take a book! If you’re looking to clear off shelf space or share books you’ve loved with others, donating books to a Little Free Library is a great option. Plus, you never know what you might find to take home with you.
8. Join your school board
As a tax-paying citizen, you are able to attend school board meetings even if you don’t have a child in the system. Amidst a surge in book bans, we can all show support for these stories. We can make our voices heard at these meetings, and even take it a step further by joining the board to help put into place policies that combat censorship.
Find more tips and resources for combating book bans in our conversation with BookRiot reporter Kelly Jensen and author Leah Johnson.
9. Support a local organization
Whether volunteering with or donating to, supporting local organizations is a great way to invest in your community. Grassroots organizations and other local institutions directly benefit people and systems in your area, increasing access to resources, providing new opportunities, and benefiting people of all ages and backgrounds.
Take a look at Libro.fm’s annual impact reports to learn more about the organizations we’ve worked with and supported.
10. Get a friend to make a pact with you!
Friends provide not only great company, but great motivation. Make a trip of it and visit all the indie bookshops in your area, or head out to a volunteer day with your favorite organization. There are plenty of ways to spend time together and benefit your community—and feel good knowing you’ll have twice the impact.
These are just some of the ways you can get involved at a local level and help create change. This month, we’re encouraging everyone to support their local community, including by nominating a local business that they think is making a difference. Learn more and get involved this Small Business September and beyond!
How else do you get involved in your community?
Let us know in the comment.