How Does Your Local Bookstore Stay In Business During The Pandemic?
The Norwich Bookstore in Vermont Offering Book Order Pick Ups
© The Norwich Bookstore
COVID-19 has disrupted just about everything and adjusting to a new normal has been challenging for everyone. Some independent bookstores have come up with creative ways to stay in business during these “difficult times,” although their hours of operation may be limited.
Across New England, some stores are able to continue business via mail order and leaving their local customer purchases outside their door for pick-up. And some can deliver to their local customers. An online presence and the ability of staff to locate books for their customers has kept things moving.
Owl & Turtle in Camden, ME offer book home delivery service, media mail shipping, and curbside pick-up, waiving fees wherever possible.
© Owl & Turtle Bookshop Cafe
Until social distancing has been lifted in our communities, make use of your local bookstore’s website (and Indiebound.org) to place book orders. Be sure to check your bookstore’s website or Facebook page for their updates before calling.
Annual Newburyport Literary Festival
streaming live on April 25th and May 3rd
With the situation changing daily, author events and other social gatherings have been cancelled, but some authors and writing teachers are holding their events virtually. The Annual Newburyport Literary Festival will be held via the Internet, streaming live on April 25th and May 3rd.
To be sure your local bookstore will still be in business once usual operating hours return, please consider purchasing a store gift certificate or making a donation to a shop that is struggling.
award-winning, woman-owned independent bookstore, located in Jamaica Plain, Boston, MA
One local store in need of funding right now is the award-winning, woman-owned independent bookstore located in the Boston, MA neighborhood of Jamaica Plain – Papercuts JP.
Kate Layte opened Papercuts in 2014 after a decade working in the book industry. Her shop also publishes under their house imprint, Cutlass Press. The recent expansion of the store combined with the pandemic threatens their ability to remain open. Check them out online.
Continue to practice safe social distancing, wear a mask, and wash hands frequently!
