Overview

• Independent Bookstore Day 2025 sees its largest participation yet, with more than 1,600 stores nationwide hosting events to celebrate local booksellers.
• The day highlights the role of independent bookstores as cultural and community hubs, offering unique events like author signings, banned-book bingo, and scavenger hunts.
• Amazon's simultaneous book sale has drawn criticism from booksellers and readers, who view it as undermining the financial impact of the celebration.
• Online platforms like Bookshop.org and advocacy from BookTok influencers encourage readers to support independent stores over corporate retailers.
• Bookstore owners emphasize the importance of shopping local to sustain diverse voices, foster community connections, and preserve independent marketplaces for books.