- Categories:
- Special Interest
- Tags:
- AwarenessBooks
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- 4th Saturday of April
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- 📚
Independent Bookstore Day champions local bookshops across the U.S. every 4th Saturday of April. Dive into special events, exclusive editions, and the unique ambiance that only an indie bookstore can offer. Support these vital cultural hubs by visiting, buying, and sharing your love for literature.
Want to sponsor Independent Bookstore Day? Learn how
History of Independent Bookstore Day
The rise of libraries across the ancient world led to a need, and desire to become private book collectors, around the known world, book dealers set up a flourishing trade, where they traveled to various locations both far and wide to secure rarely, and coveted tomes for their collectors.
In Rome, particularly, the elite in society took great pride in their ability to horde a prestigious collection of titles. So, the commercial book trade began, over 2,000 years ago, and today, every citizen around the world, has access to a bookstore, with titles available in almost every dialect. Since only the most powerful members of society historically had access to books and their contents due to historically low literacy rates, bookstores have evolved over the millennia in a variety of shapes and forms. However, at their core, they have always been places where the literate and wealthy live. While the idea of a library has been around for thousands of years, a bookstore as we know it today is much more recent.
Portugal is home to the oldest bookshop that is still operational and has been around for almost 300 years. Although bookstores have come and gone throughout history all over the world, this one is thought to be the oldest one still in operation. Despite this, bookstores are now found in many communities and important social hubs. Since they offer a direct line to people, they play a significant role in the social fabric of their communities.
Independent Bookstore Day timeline
The Gutenberg press, invented by Johannes Gutenberg makes the commercial printing of paper viable and gives millions worldwide access to the written word.
The first bookstore in the U.S., Moravian opens its doors in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.
The Dewey Decimal Classification, commonly known as the ‘Dewey Decimal System’ is enacted in libraries around the world.
Sales in independent bookstores rise to 13.2%, a phenomenal growth in a sector that many have discounted and believe to be “on its way out”.
Independent Bookstore Day FAQs
When is Independent Bookstore Day?
In 2027, Independent Bookstore Day will be observed on Saturday, April 24. It’s a prime opportunity to explore the curated collections and community spirit of local bookstores.
How many independent bookstores are there in the U.S.?
The number of independent bookstores in the U.S. continues to show resilience, with the ABA consistently reporting over 2,500 member stores. These shops are vital community anchors, often serving as cultural and social hubs.
What is the economic impact of independent bookstores?
Beyond direct sales, independent bookstores foster a vibrant local economy by attracting foot traffic to downtowns and commercial districts. Their presence often boosts sales for neighboring businesses, creating a ripple effect of economic benefit.
What makes a bookstore 'independent'?
The ‘independent’ designation signifies ownership and operation by individuals or small groups, rather than being a subsidiary of a national or international chain. This allows for unique inventory, personalized service, and a strong connection to local literary tastes.
How to Observe Independent Bookstore Day
Visit an independent bookstore
Just knowing where they are, and what they have to offer is important. Visit your local independent bookstores and let them know that you know they’re there.
Buy a book
Whether it's for you or someone else, support your local independent bookstore. Make a purchase or two and refer a friend.
Share on Social Media
Help raise awareness about your local independent bookstore. Spread their message and details on your social media platforms.
5 Fascinating Facts About Bookstores
The world’s oldest bookstore
The Bertrands bookstore in Lisbon, Portugal, is the world's oldest surviving bookstore, founded in 1732.
Books as a trade
We can thank libraries for promoting books and their commercial value because as the number of libraries grew in 300 BC, so did access to and demand for books throughout the ancient world.
Barnes and Noble
Barnes and Noble is the biggest bookstore in America, with 154,250 square feet of retail space and over 12.87 miles of shelving.
Amazon bookstore
You may be forgiven for thinking that Amazon books are only available online, but Amazon recognized the need for a brick-and-mortar bookstore, and they have one, and you can visit it in Seattle.
Millions of books in the world
According to Google, there are approximately 130 million books around the world.
Why Independent Bookstore Day is Important
It's about the written word
We love to support any endeavor that involves books. The written word is a heritage that will outlast us all.
It helps the little guy
Independent bookstores are up against major businesses with a global reach. We support them to help them survive in a very competitive industry.
We love books
Independent bookstores provide a public service. Any space that provides books, across genres and categories is always a great idea.
