Long Island Bookstores Celebrate Independent Bookstore Day

Events, music, and deals mark the annual indie bookshop holiday.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 1:39am

A bold, colorful silkscreen print featuring a repeating grid of stacked hardcover books in vibrant neon shades, conceptually representing the energy and creativity of independent bookstores.Indie bookstores on Long Island celebrate their literary community with a day of special events, author talks, and festive deals.Northport Today

Independent Bookstore Day is set for April 25, and local bookstores on Long Island are preparing special events, author appearances, live music, and food deals to celebrate the annual holiday honoring independent booksellers. Jennifer McAuliffe, owner of Northport Books, says the day is one of the biggest events of the year, even rivaling Black Friday for many indie shops.

Why it matters

Independent bookstores have faced challenges in recent decades with the rise of online retail and e-books, but events like Independent Bookstore Day help drive foot traffic and community engagement to support these local businesses that serve as hubs for literary culture and community.

The details

Northport Books, which opened in July, is planning a full day of festivities for Independent Bookstore Day, including author talks, live music performances, and food and drink specials. McAuliffe says the day is a crucial opportunity to connect with loyal customers and attract new ones to the store.

  • Independent Bookstore Day is celebrated annually on April 25.
  • Northport Books opened in July 2025.

The players

Northport Books

An independent bookstore that opened in Northport, Long Island in July 2025.

Jennifer McAuliffe

The owner of Northport Books who is planning a full day of events and activities for Independent Bookstore Day.

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What they’re saying

“It almost rivals Black Friday. Some people say it's even bigger than Black Friday.”

— Jennifer McAuliffe, Owner, Northport Books

The takeaway

Independent Bookstore Day highlights the important role that local, independent bookstores play in fostering literary culture and community engagement, even as they face challenges from larger online retailers.