Independent Bookstore Membership Reaches Highest Level Since Late 1990s

The American Booksellers Association reported that independent bookstore membership grew by more than 500 stores over the past year. Total membership reached 3,417 stores at 3,783 locations, nearly triple the level from a decade ago and the highest since the late 1990s.

New members include general interest stores, mobile operations, and pop-up locations. Several new stores focus on romance, fantasy, and romantasy genres.

Independent bookselling attracts people seeking alignment between work and personal values. Some owners previously worked in other fields before opening stores. One owner described the business as roughly half books and half community building. The owner noted that customers seek in-person connections beyond online interactions.

Some independent owners expressed concern about competition from Barnes & Noble, which has added more than 100 stores in the past two years. Barnes & Noble's CEO stated the company does not intend to take business from independent sellers. Owners of another new Chicago-area store said they hope the presence of a Barnes & Noble will bring additional customers to their location.