Independent Bookstore Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Independent Bookstore Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Independent Bookstore Day is observed on April 29th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Independent Bookstore Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as captivating facts you may want to know about Independent Bookstore Day.

📅 What day is Independent Bookstore Day 2024?

In 2024, Independent Bookstore Day is on Saturday, April 29th. It is the 5th Saturday in April; in 2024, it is Monday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all the fun details and facts about April 29, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Independent Bookstore Day is an annual event that takes place on the last Saturday of April. This year, it falls on April 29. The purpose of this day is to honor and appreciate independent bookshops in the United States, recognizing their special role in society. While the significance of books has shifted in recent years, with other forms of media gaining prominence, they remain meaningful to many individuals globally. Therefore, Independent Bookstore Day is a time to celebrate the enduring importance of books.

📜 Independent Bookstore Day History

In ancient Rome, the wealthy and influential members of society took pleasure in collecting prestigious titles. This led to the emergence of the commercial book trade around 2,000 years ago. Today, bookstores are accessible to everyone, offering books in various languages and dialects. In the past, only the privileged few had access to books and their knowledge due to low literacy rates. As a result, bookshops have evolved over time, but have always been hubs for the literate and affluent. While libraries have existed for centuries, modern bookstores have a more contemporary feel.

The oldest bookstore in the world is located in Portugal and has been operating for over 300 years. Although many bookstores have come and gone throughout history, this one holds the title for being the oldest continually running bookstore. Nowadays, bookshops can be found in various towns and serve as important social gathering places. They play a significant role in the community by providing direct interaction and conversations with people.

✅ Independent Bookstore Day Facts

🔖 Books as a trade
The expansion of libraries around 300 BC played a significant role in promoting books and their economic value. This increase in the number of libraries led to improved access to books and an increased demand for them throughout the ancient world.

🔖 Barnes and Noble

🔖 The world’s oldest bookstore
The Bertrands bookshop, located in Lisbon, Portugal, holds the esteemed distinction of being the world’s oldest operating bookstore, having first opened its doors in the year 1732.

👍 Why Is Independent Bookstore Day Important

We are enthusiastic supporters of any initiative involving books. The written word is a legacy that will outlast all of us.

Independent bookshops compete with large corporations with a global presence. We assist them in surviving in a highly competitive sector.

Independent bookstores serve the public interest. Any space that sells books of various genres and categories is always a good idea.

🙂 How To Observe Independent Bookstore Day

⚡ Share on Social Media
Promote your neighborhood’s small bookshop by sharing their message and contact details across your social media platforms.

⚡ Visit an independent bookstore
Knowing the location and offerings of independent bookshops is extremely important. Take the time to visit the bookstores in your neighborhood and make it known that you are aware of their existence.

⚡ Buy a book
Whether you’re buying a book for yourself or someone else, make sure to show your support for your local independent bookshop. Buy something from their collection and don’t forget to spread the word by recommending it to a friend.

📅 When is Independent Bookstore Day?

You can view all 🔗 April holidays, including 🔗 Special Interest and other 🔗 Awareness holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and must-know facts about Independent Bookstore Day. So be sure to check back soon.