Since the beginning of time, independent bookshops have been a mainstay of local communities, providing book lovers with a distinctive and tailored experience. However, in recent years, the growth of online book retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble has put these cherished independent bookshops’ survival in danger. The question of whether independent bookshops are thriving so persists.
Both yes and no are the responses. The number of independent bookshops in the United States has actually climbed by 35% since 2009, according to the American Booksellers Association. The need for distinctive, individualized shopping experiences and a growing appreciation for local companies both contribute to this. Independent bookshops frequently provide a carefully chosen selection of books and a sense of community that is absent from larger chain stores.
Independent book stores still have difficulties in the era of online buying, nevertheless. Although online booksellers like Amazon offer convenience and variety, many customers still prefer the simplicity of acquiring books online. The COVID-19 pandemic has also prompted numerous independent bookshops to temporarily close their doors or switch to online sales, which has negatively impacted their bottom line.
Amazon, on the other hand, is the world’s biggest online book retailer. Jeff Bezos founded Amazon in 1994, and it has since become a household name for online buying, particularly for books. Both new and secondhand books, e-books, and audiobooks are all available on Amazon. Many book customers now turn to Amazon because of the ease of one-click ordering and quick shipment.
It’s interesting to note that books were first sold in bookshops at markets and booths in classical Greece and Rome. However, the creation of dedicated stores selling just books in the 18th century marked the start of the contemporary bookshop concept. In 1725, Boston, Massachusetts, became the home of the nation’s first bookshop.
Last but not least, there is the American chain retailer Books-A-Million. Despite regional variations in rules, many Books-A-Million locations do have cozy reading nooks for patrons. However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that instead of bringing in outside materials, these locations are normally designated for browsing and reading books that are offered for sale.
Finally, despite the difficulties independent bookstores face in the era of online buying, they are still around. Independent bookshops continue to draw devoted customers, and their numbers are expanding because to the distinctive and customized experience they provide. To protect the continued viability of independent booksellers, customers should still support them whenever they can.