National Bookstore Day

Every day is Bookstore Day for me, but I suppose I'm happy that Publishers Weekly has designated November 7 as National Bookstore Day. And, it's a Saturday, so even better. Plenty of time to hit several different bookstores. Brick and mortar bookstores have had a hard time this past year given the advent (flood) of e-books and hardcover price wars and the number of big box stores that sell books.

Independent booksellers around the country are involved in this nationwide promotion to remind people how special independent bookstores are. National Bookstore Day is also a time to reflect on the roles that bookstores play in our society. Book Passage in Corte Madera (CA) is a cultural center that offers workshops, classes, talks and signings. The Poisoned Pen in Scottsdale (AZ) will be holding a workshop on collecting books which will be broadcast as a webinar. Book'em Mysteries (Pasadena, CA) is also celebrating its 20th Anniversary with a sale of 25% off all New books and 50% off previously signed hardcovers. M is for Mystery is one of my favorite local independent mystery bookstores, and I plan to stop by there today. Many other bookstores have scheduled bookclub meetings, author talks and signings today. Several mystery bookstores are involved in National Bookstore Day. For a list of Mystery Bookstores, go here. Be sure and check your favorite bookstore or search out a different (new to you) bookstore.

Here's what Publishers Weekly said in advance about National Bookstore Day:

Event organizers are hoping promotions tied to the day will attract local and national media coverage -- and, in turn, draw new customers into bookstores. “The number of stores already signed up meets our rosiest hopes for this first year. Many of the stores celebrating National Bookstore Day are recognized nationally as leaders, so we're gratified that this idea has been endorsed by these savvy booksellers,” said Ron Shank, PW group publisher. Among the offerings that bookstores are planning are author signings, children’s activities, discounts, extended hours, free refreshments, marathon “read-aloud” events, raffles and writing contests.

Visit a Bookstore today and buy a book!