Do You BelieVe Printed Books and Bookstores Are Dying?

It is often debated whether printed books and brick-and-mortar bookstores will eventually fade into history. While the digital age has undeniably transformed the way we consume literature, it would be too hasty to accept that physical bookstores will be extinct. Upon reflection, it's clear that books and their retail spaces occupy a unique and possibly irreplaceable place in society. Let's explore why bookstores are far from being a thing of the past, and why their demise would be a significant loss for communities.

Personal Perspective on Physical Bookstores

To many, the tactile experience of holding a book, the rustling of paper, the scent of aged pages—these sensory experiences are invaluable. I don’t believe these physical(bookstore)s will disappear. They’re here to stay, as long as there is a demand for them. A physical book, in my opinion, is superior to its digital counterpart. They will, much like Vinyl records, become collector’s items cherished for their unique qualities.

As an individual with over two decades of experience working in bookstores, I've seen firsthand the evolution and decline of these spaces. Booksuperstores like Borders and Barnes Noble once dominated the market, but their subsequent struggles highlight the challenges these behemoths faced. Overexpansion and high overhead costs made maintaining profitability difficult, especially when the economy took a downturn a decade ago. Ideally, they might have had to restructure, but ultimately, they were forced to scale back. It’s a cautionary tale for businesses ignoring the needs of their local customers.

What Big Chains Lost

The biggest strength of a bookstore is its book-loving sales staff. These knowledgeable employees can recommend books, build personal relationships, and help customers discover new works. They understand their customers’ interests and can guide them to what they may never have considered. This type of interpersonal service is a luxury that’s difficult to replicate online. However, corporate chains often forgot this valuable asset, and instead, focused on creating more of a coffee shop and library atmosphere to attract customers. While this worked well initially, it backfired as people increasingly realized they could read whatever they wanted, and take advantage of the overly generous return policies. This resulted in massive returns and a loss of inventory.

The Future of Bookstores

Despite these challenges, traditional bookstores are not doomed. In fact, they’ve evolved alongside the digital age. The either/or narrative that purports online booksellers are the sole alternative to brick-and-mortar stores is overly simplistic. Instead, it’s an either/and situation where both continue to coexist.

Ebook usage has stabilized, and while Amazon and other online retailers continue to dominate, local bookstores have found ways to adapt. They’ve developed a more customer-centric approach and are also diversifying their offerings. For instance, not just selling books, but also foods, dreamcatchers, stuffed animals, and t-shirts. This multi-faceted approach makes bookstores a conducive environment for casual shoppers, ensuring they remain relevant in today’s retail landscape.

Museums and bookstores are a prime example. Bookstores like Changing Hands in Phoenix have become more than just bookstores; they are wine bars and used book stores now sell collectibles like art and statues. This diversification not only increases their appeal but also brings diverse groups of people into their stores.

Supporting Local Bookstores

For bookstores to thrive, it’s essential that local communities support them. Here are some ways to do this:

Shop there instead of using them as showrooms for online purchases. Attend book launches and other events organized by bookstores. Sign up for newsletters and stay informed about new releases. Purchase books online from local bookstores. Support local libraries to increase public interest and funding for bookstores.

Bookstores are not just places to buy books; they are essential community centers. They play a crucial role in keeping the literary world alive and vibrant. By supporting these spaces, we ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the tactile experience of reading a physical book and engaging with the community that surrounds them.