5 ways Book Lovers Can Support Small Business Saturday
/Perhaps you've always dreamed of opening an Etsy shop or owning a little boutique and coffee shop. For me, some of my dreams include all of the above. With today's everyday conflicts and negativity in the world, I've been thinking more about how I spend my time and my money. I'm trying to create more memories over clutter and plan ahead for family adventures. Yet underneath these ideas, I still have a genuine love for giving and receiving modest gifts. If you're looking for ways to spend your money and give thoughtfully this season, why not combine your love of literature, family time and gifts by supporting small businesses that share your same values? Give books to those you love, indulge in story times together as a family and support stores that donate books to those in need.
Here are a few ways to do so:
1. Call your local bookstore or sign up for their newsletter! Many will be offering special events, story times (more shopping time for you) and author events. Wild Detectives in Dallas will buy you a drink when you order a book from them. So if you learned of a great new title over Thanksgiving dinner call them up and when you pick up the book they will offer you a drink on the house!
2. Order online or visit any of the following independent bookstores. They provide a wide range of options and great book recommendations on their website! Book People, Blue Willow, BookCourt, Books of Wonder and Octavia Books.
3. Donate books! Several independent bookstores will give you a little spending cash or also support schools and libraries in need. Spread the love by decluttering your shelves this holiday season and adding new titles. Have you heard of The Last Bookstore? They have an inspiring story!
4. You don't have to limit yourself to bookstores. Outfit yourself or your house with all the bookish essentials from wall art to totes to enamel pins on Ideal Bookshelf.
5. Beyond keeping track of Caldecott Winners, also follow Bank Street Bookstore. They are affiliated to the renowned school of education and each year they publish a thorough list of the best children's books of the year. Their intent is to provide quality literature to both educators and parents.