Robert Young

There are fewer and fewer of them. Independent bookstores, that is. If your town still has one, consider it a blessing. These stores tend to be small and quirky. You’re greeted by friendly people and the distinctive scent of books. Heaven.

I visited one – Tsunami Books – in my hometown of Eugene, OR yesterday as I continued my marketing swing to local businesses I thought would be interested in carrying my book. I had been to Tsunami before, attending events and buying books, but never as an author pedaling my own work. I thought this might be quite a different experience, but it really wasn’t. I was still greeted amiably, and the proprietor – Scott Landfield – took a genuine interest in the work I had done. Despite not discussing it directly, he seemed to know the rigor involved in producing a book. When it was decision-time, it wasn’t about “if” he would buy any books but rather “how many?” He didn’t hedge his bets with consignment, either. He went for it.

I left Tsunami feeling hopeful, not only for my book but for other local authors who struggle to find an outlet for their work. I am also hopeful for readers who want the personalized experience of shopping at a place where people know your name and are more than willing to help satisfy your reading proclivities.

The number of bookstores like Tsunami is steadily decreasing, but you can stop that by finding the independent bookstore where you live and patronize it. It’s not too late.