During the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, many independent bookstores were forced to close their doors as the world shifted to online retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble for their literature. Online sales accounted for over 50% of books sold in 2020, with eBook sales up 11.7% while sales from physical bookstores went down by 11.3%. As independent bookstores reopened post-pandemic, consumers remained heavily reliant on online book sellers. Set to open in Spring 2026, Carlsbad Village Books will be Carlsbad’s newest indie bookstore in an age of online reading.
Independent bookstores are woven into the community, providing a consistent, personalized experience: book recommendations, friendly chats and niche titles are all a part of a welcoming atmosphere. Rather than relying on algorithms, staff hand-pick books based on customer interactions and reading history, creating a selection that reflects a community’s unique identity.
Traditional brick-and-mortar bookstores also support the local economy. About 28% of independent bookstore revenue stays in the community. However, only 17% of Barnes & Noble’s revenue and 4% of Amazon’s revenue remains in the community, with this money often going towards local businesses and jobs. Many independent bookstores partner with other local businesses to facilitate an interconnected and resilient community.
Online bookstores, as well as chains like Barnes & Noble, offer consumers convenience and ease. With over 600 locations in the US, Barnes & Noble’s online platform, quick shipping and vast number of store locations give readers the flexibility that independent bookstores are unable to provide.
Bookshop.org, an online bookselling website focused on supporting independent bookstores in the US and UK, is combating this issue. By giving independent bookstores an online platform to sell their books and handle shipping and customer service, Bookshop is helping indie bookstores thrive in an era of online shopping.
Independent bookstores offer a welcoming center of learning and growth that gives back to the community and local economy. Individuals should support local bookstores by purchasing books from their store locations, attending community events or buying from Bookshop.org. New openings, like Carlsbad Village Books, give readers and non-readers alike a chance to participate in their community. It doesn’t take much; just showing support and talking to others about a shared passion can make a difference.
