Independent Bookstores are the best—not only do they support the local economy, they also host events for authors, and booksellers are always around to give you recommendations.
Still, it is impossible for indies to compete with Amazon, which can discount books because they are not their main source of revenue. At Libro.fm, we’re committed to supporting local bookstores, because we never want our indies to disappear. Here are seven reasons why you should support your local indie.
#1
Booksellers are the best!
When you visit an independent bookstore, booksellers are there to help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Can’t remember the title but know what the cover looks like? They can help you figure it out. Love an author and want to read something similar? They’ve definitely got a list. Booksellers make the shopping experience feel more personal and fun.
#2
You have room to browse.
Scrolling through books on a website isn’t the same as walking through a bookstore and picking up whatever catches your eye. Even if you went in searching for something specific, I guarantee you’ll discover a new book you hadn’t even considered before browsing the shelves.
#3
You’re helping the local economy.
Independent bookstores are local businesses. By visiting an indie instead of a big chain store, you’re putting money right back into the hands of the community. In fact, for every dollar spent at a small business in the U.S., about 67 cents stays in the local community versus 45 cents when spending at a big box store, like Barnes & Noble or Books-A-Million, according to American Express.
#4
There are always events to check out.
Whether it’s an author signing or a book club meeting, things are always happening at independent bookstores. You can keep up with your local store on social media to keep up with all the events they have going on.
#5
You can get more than just books.
Many bookstores sell more than just books. Grab a bite to eat, get a cup of coffee, or purchase a puzzle. There are so many things to be found in your local independent bookstore, you just have to look.
#6
By shopping local you’re helping the environment.
Reduce your carbon footprint when you shop in-store rather than having your books shipped. Most indies even offer the option to purchase books online for in-store pick up, so all you have to do is drop in when you’re free, grab your books, and go.
#7
To keep independent bookstores around we have to support them.
Due to the pandemic, we lost many independent bookstores. Meanwhile, Amazon’s revenue increased. Even if everyone stopped buying books from Amazon, the company will be fine. However, if we stop supporting indies they cannot keep their doors open. We encourage you to help keep them in business by supporting them whenever and however you can.
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