Around Indies

Huffington Post recognizes bookstores’ spirit of independence; The Bookshelf and Gallery readies for Independents Week; Book Ends profiled in Winchester Patch

Huffington Post Recognizes Bookstores’ Spirit of Independence

In recognition of Independence Day 2011, the Huffington Post features “Bookstores We Love for Their Spirit of Independence.”

The list includes San Francisco’s The Booksmith, whose “big audacious goal” is to “create the Independent Bookstore for the 21^st century”; Brooklyn’s Greenlight Bookstore, which humbly tells customers, “We’re here because of you…. You did so much to make it happen, and your support and interaction will give it life”; and Miami’s Books & Books, a self-proclaimed “community of writers and readers hosting 60 author events a month and featuring a carefully curated selection.”

The full HuffPost list includes photos and hundreds of favorites posted by readers.

The Bookshelf and Gallery Readies for Independents Week

The Bookshelf and Gallery in Thomasville, Georgia, is joining with other local businesses for Independents Week celebrations from July 4 – 9. Each day, the bookstore will highlight a different aspect of independent businesses and spotlight other area indies.

In addition to running special sales throughout the week, The Bookshelf will host an independent film night (including a screening of the movie adaptation of the Winter’s Bone), an indie music night (featuring a local band), and its regional authors fair (where participants can meet local authors and writers group members).

The store has been using IndieBound marketing material and templates, which are “highly effective tools,” said Sarah Turner, the store’s director of marketing and events. “It is one thing to know that money spent in local shops stays local; it’s another thing to realize exactly how much of your dollar stays put.”

Book Ends Profiled in Winchester Patch

BookEnds, a small bookstore in Winchester, Massachussetts, continues to be successful after 24 years, writes Winchester Patch. Owner Judy Manzo attributes her store’s success to a small but loyal group of customers.

“Being small does not mean smaller business but rather one that is concentrated on its customers,” she told the Patch.

In addition to having an extensive online presence, BookEnds often works with local schools and serves as their book fair vendor. Manzo, who purchased the store in 1992, said that her initial goals were to make the store a community gathering place as well as a destination bookstore.

Customers appreciate the store’s extended hours, as well as its selection of greeting cards and gifts.

“After this much time, we have become somewhat of an institution in the town,” Manzo said.