Canadian Independent Bookstore Day invites readers to shop locally
Canadian Independent Bookstore Day (CIBD) is on Saturday, April 27. The annual event brings together readers, writers, illustrators and publishers to celebrate the more than 275 independent bookstores in Canada.
Stores will host events such as author readings, scavenger hunts, contests and prize giveaways to engage more readers.
On the Canadian Independent Booksellers Association (CIBA) site, there is a map highlighting local bookstores for Canadians to visit.
“A big part of it is both thanking our customers for shopping locally and also celebrating and raising awareness of the role that bookstores play in communities,” Jessica Walker, the managing partner of Munro’s Books and vice-president of the Canadian Independent Bookstore Association, told CBC Books.
Walker says that independent bookstores are able to offer books that are specific to a region. “One of the things that almost every store probably carries are hiking books, walking books, cycling books and local history that is very regional.”
She also describes the connections that are made through local bookstores.
The kids that Walker had recommended books to at Munro’s Books are now bringing their own kids in.
“It’s a really kind of unique relationship.”
Anjula Gogia, the retail manager and events coordinator at Another Story Bookshop in Toronto shares a similar experience. “When you can have a chat with your readers in-person, you get to build connections with them and think of them in mind as you’re picking out more books. We’ve watched children grow up. In fact, we have some staff here who grew up coming here.”
“It’s a real recognition of the work that indie bookshops do across the country.”
In addition to connections with readers, local bookstores support Canadian creators — writers, illustrators and publishers.
Vicki VanSickle, a Toronto-based children’s and YA author says that a “difference is made in a Canadian writer’s life” when a local bookseller selects their books, and puts on author events such as readings and signings.
It provides coverage, and builds future readers.
“For kids, the idea that there’s a person who writes books is a big idea. Going into a store and actually getting a chance to meet an author and knowing that they live in the neighborhood can really put it in a different perspective,” says VanSickle, “Most people let their kids pick whatever they want to read, and I think that’s really powerful.”
“I think Canadian independent bookstores are always a good thing to celebrate.”
This year, the CIBA commissioned artwork from Canadian artist and illustrator Cornelia Li to help celebrate CIBD 2024.
The CIBA has also organized a contest. For every book purchased on April 27 at an indie bookstore — in person, by phone or online — the buyer will be entered into a national draw to win one of several prizes.
Updated with files from CBC Books
