Celebrate National Independent Bookstore Day

The last Saturday in April means it is National Independent Bookstore Day here in the US. Here at EYB we take pride in promoting specialty cookbook stores in several ways. First, we have a listing of our favorite cookbook store worldwide, plus we list bookstore events on our Worldwide Calendar of Cookbook Events. In addition, we celebrate these stores with our annual “best of” lists that we compile with their invaluable input. 

There are several reasons to purchase cookbooks at small, independent shops instead of big box retailers. First, these stores usually carry items that you just won’t find in a large retail store, including imported books and magazines, vintage items, and niche volumes from small publishers. The knowledgeable sales staff will help match you to books that fit your interests and skill level, and independent bookstores also carry (or can help you find) out-of-print books and magazines.

It’s great fun to browse through the stacks at small bookstores, which often sell unique, locally-produced items in addition to books. I almost always leave a small bookstore with a handy or interesting item that was not even on my radar. If you do not live near an independent bookseller, you can still support one by ordering online. Many shops offer seamless online ordering, or you can pick up the phone and purchase that way (and likely have a fascinating conversation as well). We hope you will support specialty cookbook stores and other independent bookstores not only today, but throughout the year.