Local
Bookstores
Late
last week I read that our one and only local bookstore will be closing soon.
The small town landscape will be very different, somehow diminished, without it.
I bought many books there but, like most of us, often bought more online or at
other discounters.
The
non-chain bookstores can’t compete price-wise, but Amazon and other online
sites don’t offer the experience of hands-on browsing, salespeople who will
discuss what’s popular, or mention the newest selections from your favorite
authors. I wonder how many books per reader who buys elsewhere it would take,
if purchased locally, to support a local bookstore.
Amazon
Controversy
Some
bookstore sales have been helped by the feud between Amazon and Hatchette
Publishing over Amazon’s methods of discount pricing. They refused to let people
preorder the coming works of Hatchette’s authors during the dispute and
alienated many, especially authors such as James Patterson, who joined in a
letter denouncing the giant Amazon’s practices, and talk show host Steve
Colbert, who campaigned for preordering titles unavailable at Amazon from other
vendors.
Even
without this, many people have been making a concerted effort to buy locally
and support their own communities. Of course we all know that the economy hurt
many businesses and books, considered entertainment, are low on the list of
necessary expenses when people have to cut back. Small towns like ours also
tend to bounce back more slowly than more urban locations.
Other
Services
Our
bookstore also offered community services you won’t find at chain bookstores.
Local authors often came to give readings and discuss their work, which ranged
from fiction to social awareness issues. It hosted a monthly writers’ group—I’m
a member—that now has to find a new home. The members come from various towns
in the region and finding a central meeting place may not be easy.
Part
of the Community
Our
store boasted a cozy counter for customers to sit, buy snacks, and socialize.
Several computer stations were available for customer use. And where else would
the salespeople be familiar with your personal reading tastes? I’m afraid the
bookstore will be missed more than the general public yet realizes. I am sad to
see it go.
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