Britney’s highly anticipated memoir released on Tuesday, and I’ve been so excited to read it. As soon as it was announced, I went online and pre-ordered it–from my local Indie bookstore! It was such a delight picking it up, and reminded me what a gem a local bookstore is. Indie bookstores are also a sustainable option for people and planet, which is what today’s post is all about.
Firstly, I’m not going to shame you for buying books online. I buy some books that way, too. My philosophy is that even small changes can make a big sustainability impact, and that you can start now, without overhauling your whole lifestyle. So this blog post is to encourage you to try an Indie bookstore, and choose that option when you can. Not only is it more sustainable, it’s a lot more fun, too.
why indie bookstores are sustainable for people and planet
If you’re lucky, an Indie bookstores is a part of your local community. It employs neighbors, and puts money back into the community through its tax dollars. According to the American Independent Business Alliance, local businesses generate 3x the economic benefit for your community, compared to shopping at a chain. They also host community events like book clubs, connecting readers to each other. And since they’re local to you, you can lessen the environmental impact of shipping and pick it up yourself (which is what I did, and it’s so fun!). My local bookstore, {pages}, puts online book purchases outside in their courtyard, with the buyer’s name on the spine, just like a library would do. It was so cute and quaint, and the easiest pickup experience.
Indie bookstores connect you to the authors
One of my favorite things about Indie bookstores is that I’ve been able to purchase several signed copies from them! One of my favorite authors always gives signed copies to her local bookstore in the Bay Area, so when she has a new release, I preorder, request a signed copy, and the friendly employees take care of the rest. When my mom requested a book for her birthday, I bought it from Book Soup, an Indie bookstore in West Hollywood where the author was signing copies. So she got a signed copy and a unique gift for a book she was excited for!
INDIE BOOKSTORES OFFER A WHOLE EXPERIENCE
In addition to the fun pickup experience, it’s relaxing and nostalgic to wander the shelves of a local bookstore and discover a new book. Many books at {pages}, for example, have little notes tucked under them, with recommendations by the store’s employees, to help you choose! It’s a very personal touch, and something you just don’t get online or at a bigger chain store.
So as you look for Fall reads to cozy up to, check your local bookstore. It makes for a great Saturday morning activity: grab some coffee, bundle up, and go wander your local Indie bookstore. You’ll leave with your new book same-day, a relaxing experience, and the joy of supporting your community.
Do you have a favorite bookstore? Let me know in the comments!
