Long Live the Bookstore

You know that moment when you're in a bookstore and the world seems perfect? No? Well, go away; you're clearly reading the wrong blog.

I love bookstores more than just about anything. Think about it: an entire shop dedicated to the written word. It doesn't matter if they're big or small spaces. Chains like Barnes & Noble may have a wider variety of the popular stuff, but independent booksellers are more likely to be able to direct you to a title that suits your personality and preferences because they're invested in the written word and in their customer base. Used bookstores are awesome in their own right, because they have former bestsellers at a reduced price and tons of random things you may not find in another store, either because it's a rare book or one that's out of print.

The most devastating thing I can imagine is the disappearance of the bookstore. Because it's more than just the economics of it: cut jobs, fewer publication opportunities, and so on. It's the thought that people might turn away from the written word altogether. So if you happen to give a flying whatever, visit a bookstore soon and buy something for yourself. And your friends. And your kids. And basically anyone you know. Remind them--and yourself--of the power of books and bookstores. If nothing else, it'll make you feel like Belle when she's singing to those sheep about Prince Charming, and that's a pretty great experience, am I right?

-Cate-