Fellow blogger Noelle at the Daily Tannenbaum has a very poignant post about the closing of her parents' independent bookstore in Wyckoff, New Jersey. Yet another reminder that our buy local efforts can go so much further than just food. I find that when most people choose to start paying attention to buying local food that their purchases in every aspect of their life are questioned ... but this post is a great reminder of why we need to continue to question every purchase.
In the past year, almost every publisher has released at least one book about the importance of buying locally for the sake of the environment and the economy. It would be a shame if they don't make the connection that they have the power to help prevent independent bookstores from closing, and keep these vital community businesses alive. With pricing and terms that would allow independents to compete with chains, it would prevent the ever centralization of book distribution and allow local businesses to stay in business. This would be good for communities, individuals and the publishing industry itself. Unfortunately, it's too late for the people of Wyckoff, NJ, because starting October 1st, they will no longer be be able to buy their books from a local retailer.
