Independent Bookstore Day is a one-day national party that takes place at indie bookstores across the country on the last Saturday in April. Every store is unique and independent, and every party is different. But in addition to authors, live music, cupcakes, scavenger hunts, kids events, art tables, readings, barbecues, contests, and other fun stuff, there are exclusive books and literary items that you can only get on that day. Not before. Not after. Nowhere else.
History of Independent Bookstore Day
The first national Independent Bookstore Day was carried out in 2015 by Samantha Schoech, a writer, copywriter and editor, and the Northern California Independent Bookseller’s Association.
Over 400 stores participated in the event and the holiday is aimed to help independent bookstores have higher sales in their merchandise and help bring into the spotlight the potential of these indie bookstores.
IBD has their own merchandise produced, and thus stores all over the country take the time out to sell this merchandise as part of the celebration.
Much of the aim of these indie bookstores to keep to their roots in traditional print as modern society moves into a digital age. These stores also help advertise new and budding authors in their efforts to sell their novels or works of literature.
Last year alone produced an 85 percent increase in profits for the 420 stores that participated in the event and in the media, there were over 201 stories produced online about the holiday. The passion behind this holiday comes from the idea that bookstores aren’t just a place to buy books, but a place where communities gather together and express their love for stories. They become good places for kids to learn about literature and for adults to come in the midst of the day and relax with a good book.
