The importance of independent bookshops and how to support them
Independent bookshops are magical places. Walking through their doors is like entering a portal to new possibilities. They’re places where you can easily stumble upon the unexpected, including the bookshop cat.
And there’s good news.
In 2023 the Bookseller’s Association of the UK and Ireland announced the sixth consecutive year of growth with 1072 independent bookshops. So we have more to enjoy.
But this growth follows over twenty years of decline. Without support, we could lose them and all they offer.
With the availability of mega-retailers online and larger bookshop chains, why do independent bookshops matter so much?
Three reasons why independent bookshops matter
1. Help to grow the local economy
Shopping locally is likely to be a lockdown legacy.
According to a 2021 Barclaycard survey, 91 per cent of those who shopped locally during the pandemic say they will continue to do so.
As independent bookshops are often owned and run by local people, the money made on sales and wages will go back into the local economy.
2. Support the local community
Independent bookshops provide a safe space for readers, reading groups and local events. Some support a particular social purpose or cause, such as local school reading programmes.
They may also host indie and local author's book launch events.
3. Provide a personalised, independent service
Each independent bookshop offers something a little different.
A second-hand bookshop is a treasure trove of pre-loved books awaiting rediscovery.
The Rare and Antiquarian bookshop houses old editions of popular titles or out-of-print books.
Other independent bookshops may specialise in speculative fiction or poetry, books and authors you’ve not heard of before.
As they are independent they can focus on what’s important to them and their customers, who also benefit from the bookseller's knowledge.
Three great reasons why we need to keep our independent bookshops around.
So how can we help them survive and thrive?
How to support independent bookshops
The obvious way to support a local or favourite independent bookshop is to visit them in person and buy from them.
If you can’t visit the brick-and-mortar bookshop, there are other things you can do.
Buy
Most bookshops have a website. There you can buy from them directly or through their chosen online retailer. On the website you can also find out their telephone number or email address, so you can get in touch to ask about something you want and if they can deliver it to you.
Participate
Whether it’s a book launch or a virtual reading from an author, online events are another way bookshops build community.
To learn more about upcoming events, you can subscribe to their newsletter or visit their website.
Engage
Social media has become a popular space for direct engagement and promotion of events or giveaways. Following your favourite bookshop online means you can share their messages and join in on the conversation.
Interact
Independent booksellers write blogs to promote new stock or provide some knowledge on a particular subject. Interacting with blogs also helps build the community, starting conversations that you can continue when you visit the bookshop. You can also share the blog posts with friends and family, or on your social media platform of choice.
No town without a bookshop
The high streets and main streets of towns and cities are improved and set apart by the presence of an independent bookshop. They are a beacon to the bookish and a place that actively promotes reading for pleasure.
“A town isn’t a town without a bookstore. It may call itself a town, but unless it’s got a bookstore, it knows it’s not foolin’ a soul.”
So support your local independent bookshop today.
If you’re a bookshop looking to increase your online presence, start a new subscription service or need social media support, I can help.
Mary Wyrd provides virtual assistant and copywriting services to creatives and the businesses that support them. Yes, that includes bookshops.