[spaces]
Independent Bookstores
A home for books and book lovers.
Bookstores are familiar to many of us. They house all the new books and the classics you may have read in the past.
At the same time, these are [spaces] for you to do more than silently browse or read. Independent bookstores host events that are just as noisy and joy-filled as anywhere else.
Take a dive into how two independent bookstores give you the space to hangout.
Independent bookstores?
Yup! We’re talking about independent bookstores. These bookstores are run by an individual or group of individuals in a local community.
More than likely, the person helping you find a book or complete a purchase is the owner! Or somebody near and dear to them. It’s homey and comfortable as you speak directly to the person whose space it is. Ask questions! Strike up a conversation!
Books
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Fantasy, biographies, poetry…and more. The collections of independent bookstores are wide ranging, you just have to dive in and ask questions.
The beautiful part is that many of these books have been read before and have traveled many places before there temporary home here. You’re invited to continue their journeys.
Events
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Book launches, book readings, writer talks. Practically all bookstores host these type of events, but they’re just the tip of the iceberg.
Music nights. Open mics. Book adaptation films nights. Literature and books go way beyond that simply sitting down and reading a book, even if that’s where it usually starts!
Follow your local independent bookstore and see what new events they’re doing soon.
Specialties
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Some independent bookstores have dedicated their space to specific types of literature. May it be counter culture literature or LGBTQ+ authors.
Quimby’s Bookstore, featured in the episode, specializes in zines. Small, self-published miniature magazines that anybody can create and share with the world. You’ll find many zines of a huge assortment of topics — comedy, geography, social justice — all from the minds of local artists and creators.
Tarot Card Readings
Quimby’s Bookstore — in-line with their alternative nature — offers tarot card readings on special days.
“Tarot is an intuitive form of communication used for a variety of purposes. It’s evolution can be witnessed from an Italian card game in the 1400s, to reinvention by practitioners of the occult starting in the 1700s, for divinatory purposes in the 1900s; thus leading towards modern new age uses combining these origins - with a slight psychological twist. Tarot at Witch Winds is generally used as a tool for healing, spirituality and clarity. Although online Tarot collective readings can bring guidance to our everyday lives, in - person readings offer a unique experience for each querent. It’s at times difficult to find a reputable source for in - person Tarot readings. We at Witch Winds take pride in offering authentic intuitive services, impactful sessions and careful space holding for any prospective guests.”
Credit : @WitchWindsTarot on IG
Witch Winds Organizer — Ruby @madame_masochist on IG
Browse books.
Chat up folks.
Location
Black Spring Books
Year
2023
Check out how one independent bookstore sets themselves up!
Entrance - To many people’s surprise, many bookstores don’t look like bookstores from the outside. They’re housed in old homes or inconspicuous storefront. You will always see a hint of books and literature on the outside, you just need to step in!
Books - So many books. It’s walls and walls of books. They’re often sectioned by genre. Browse at your own pace or ask the person upfront for pointers on where to start! If you’re looking for a book recommendation, more details you give, the more they can help you.
Seating Area - Seeing if a book is your jam is a lot to do while you stand, that’s why many bookstores have seating. Take a seat as you read, a new book or your own! You may find others already there and enjoying the space.
Outside Area - A bit less common is an outside area. More seating for you to enjoy and space for many events.
Quimby’s Bookstore
Black Spring Books
Visit Quimby’s Bookstore or Black Spring Books.
Still have questions? No worries, feel free to reach out!
Check out both independent bookstores featured in our episode:
Quimby’s Bookstore NYC - 536 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Black Spring Books - 672 Driggs Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
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