With Bookshop.org, You Can Support Local Bookstores While Shopping for Books Online
Whether you’re a novel-a-day type of reader or are trying to get back into the hobby, buying a new book is something worth getting excited about. We understand how easy it is to turn to the big-name brands when shopping online for books, but did you know it’s not the only option? Allow us to introduce you to Bookshop.org, where you can find your next read online while supporting your local bookstore.
Why Shop Online for Books?
Sure, nothing beats the feeling of strolling up and down the aisles of an indie bookstore in Rochester, MI, but we’re well aware that not everyone has that kind of free time. For many, being able to shop online for books is the far more convenient option. The 24/7 access to literary inventory means you can buy whatever book you want, at any time, day or night.
Since indie bookstores in Michigan are often located in smaller buildings than, say, Barnes & Noble, their selection is limited by their size. If your favorite store doesn’t carry the exact title you’re looking for, don’t panic. Oftentimes, the online selection at their affiliate link or website is far more extensive than a physical, brick-and-mortar shop.
Shopping online for books can also save you money! While they may feel like small expenses, gas and parking fees can add up. Being able to browse from the comfort of your own home could save you big in the long run. If you’re lucky, you might even be offered a discounted price that’s only available online. Saving your money means there’s more leftover to spend on books in the future.
Additional Benefits of Shopping for Books Online:
- No crowds or wait times
- Easy access to new releases
- Special offers not offered in-store
- Range of e-books
- Can send your purchase as a gift anywhere
- Get quick recommendations
- Explore a diverse range of authors and genres
Is It Possible to Shop for Books Online Without Giving Money to Chain Bookstores?
At first glance, it may seem impossible to stop buying books on Amazon or Barnes & Noble’s websites, but we promise, it’s really an easy switch. If you have a local bookstore that you’d rather support, but prefer to shop for books online, there are multiple alternatives that make this possible.
What is an Indie Bookstore?
Even if you haven’t heard the term before, you’ve likely been in an indie bookstore at least once in your life. Indie, short for independent, bookstores are locally owned alternatives to corporate chains.
They typically operate out of one location and are run by individuals or families with longstanding passions for books. With complete control over the business, indie bookstore owners can curate their shelves to unique tastes and act as imperative social hubs and third spaces for their communities.
If you’re ready to put your money where your belief system is and care about supporting your local economy, we encourage you to buy any and all books from indie stores. Whether you like shopping for books online or in person, making the switch has a bigger impact than you think.
What is the Best Place to Shop Online for Books While Supporting Local Businesses?
As booksellers, we’re asked this question all the time, but our answer has always remained the same: Bookshop.org! Created by Andy Hunter right before COVID-19 hit the US in 2020, the website was intended to save independent bookstores from dying out as Amazon and Barnes & Noble continued to dominate around the globe. The minds behind this B Corp believe that by procuring even a small percentage of Amazon’s online book sales, they can help small businesses stay alive and thrive.
Popular Genres on Bookshop.org:
- Fantasy
- Romance
- Memoir
- Thriller
- Sci-fi
- Dystopian
- Cozy mystery
How Does Bookshop.org Support Local Bookstores?
Bookshop.org supports locally owned bookstores in two different ways. Shops that have an affiliate link, like Novel’s, earn 30% of the cover price on any sale made through their link. If purchases aren’t made through specific bookshops, 10% of that sale goes into a general profit-sharing pool that is then evenly split every six months amongst every participating store. In both cases, Bookshop.org handles all the inventory, packing, and shipping—the store just reaps the benefits.
How Do You Shop for Books Online at Bookshop.org?
Using Bookshop.org to shop for books online is simple! Just select a bookstore, whether it’s Novel, located in downtown Rochester, or your favorite hometown store and start browsing.
When you find a book you want, make sure your webpage has your bookstore’s name underneath the logo and add it to your cart. After your purchase goes through, you’ll receive a confirmation—and all that’s left to do is wait for your new book to arrive!
Does Bookshop.org Sell Used Books Online?
If you’re in the market for physical copies of best-sellers, convenient e-books, or gift cards, Bookshop.org is the place to go! Secondhand or used books, however, are not offered through this online format—you’ll have to go elsewhere for that.
Can You Pre-Order a Book on Bookshop.org?
Are you interested in buying a title that has yet to be released? Thanks to the pre-order option available on Bookshop.org, there’s no need to get caught up in floofy “special” offers from mass retailers. As soon as the book is listed, you can purchase it and expect it to be shipped to your home within 48 hours of the official release date.
How Does Bookshop.org’s E-Book Option Work?
In an effort to compete with other e-book options, like Kindle, Bookshop.org allows readers to purchase a digital title and read it either on their web browser or their app. With over 3 million e-books available, there are plenty of options!
The next time you’re feeling the urge to go on an online book shopping spree, find the strength to refrain from buying off the sites you’re used to and try out Bookshop.org! From Brandon Sanderson’s latest releases to a timeless classic, there’s bound to be a title for you on the website. It’s never too late to start supporting small—starting at Novel!