Everyone, it seems, is aware of Amazon. The online retailer started out as an online bookstore, but quickly became a behemoth that now dominates the market. But many people don’t seem to be aware that there are other places to buy books online. In fact, there are some fantastic virtual bookstores where you can find deals and support great causes with every purchase.
First, the disclaimer. I’m writing this post to help promote indie bookstores. I’m not getting paid or receiving any sort of kickback. I’m doing this because I’m passionate about supporting small businesses and avoiding giant corporate businesses. Shopping local is great, but sometimes I want to buy a book I can’t find locally or want to make the purchase while it’s on my mind.
One of the nicer things about the internet is that many smaller bookstores have a web presence. They won’t show up in the top results of web searches, but if you take the time to scroll down you can find a bunch of them scattered all over the world.
My personal preference for online book shopping is BookShop.org. Per their site: Our platform gives independent bookstores tools to compete online and financial support to help them maintain their presence in local communities. Not only do they have a great selection and titles are well-categorized, but a portion of your purchase price goes to support local, independent bookstores. There are also monthly sales and opportunities to garner discounts. From personal experience, they also have great customer service.
Another online bookstore I occasionally frequent is the independent Strand Book Store. Based in New York City, they boast 18 miles of books (which I would LOVE to see in person…I’d get lost in their shelves). Great selection and great service.
I have also purchased from the City Lights Books based in San Francisco. They were founded in 1953 by two poets and specialize in literature from around the world. Most famously, they were the target of an obscenity trial in the late 1950s for publishing Allen Ginsberg’s Howl and Other Poems. They continue to support writers and progressive politics both on their shelves and through their publishing house.
And I don’t want to forget to mention Project Gutenberg, a one-stop-shop for public domain titles. Looking for poems from the 16th century or a copy of Huckleberry Finn? Project Gutenberg has you covered. They also provide books in multiple formats, so you can find copies that will work in your specific e-reader, a PDF, or even read it online in your browser. No purchase necessary, but they do appreciate a little donation to help keep them up and running.
There are dozens and dozens of other independent online booksellers around the world who would appreciate your time and money. You may pay a few dollars more than you would at Amazon, but you’d also be able to support small businesses and maybe make a small dent against corporate monopolies.
Do you have a favorite bookstore, either online or brick-and-mortar?
RB
Great post with very helpful information, Richard.
Thanks, Pat!
Whenever I tell people I have illustrated a few children’s books, I get asked : “anything I know?”.
First of all, how I should I know what they know ? 🤭
Second, just because it isn’t known or mainstream, doesn’t mean the book isn’t equally good or in many cases, better.
Sometimes I really wonder how the more known authors got a publishing contract, because their writing isn’t all that great.
For that reason, I, too, am all for the indie stores and authors!
I love how you always raise awareness for the non mainstream authors/artists/book community! 🙂
A valuable post. Thank you for sharing.
Wherever I go my first stop is often a bookshop. I spend hours browsing before loading up. I try to avoid Amazon. Some of my favourite shops are Dimmocks in Sydney, Waterstones Piccadilly in London, Strand in NYC, Kinokuniya in Dubai and Tokyo, Hugendubel in Munich, Librairie Galignani in Paris…….
Too many to list! That’s great to hear, Sheree. Wandering bookshelves is a great way to lose oneself for a few hours.
Absolutely Richard