The key that's helped independent bookstores to survive and thrive...
 

Not too long ago, independent bookstores were shutting down everywhere.

What was the behemoth that was killing them all?

It was Borders. Huge Borders bookstores were taking over the country.

Borders would open up where there were already plenty of bookstores. Like clockwork, the independent bookstores in that area would shut down, unable to compete. Years of blood and sweat by small bookstore owners - disappeared down the drain. Many were forced into retirement.

Then... along came Amazon. And who got eaten up by Amazon? Borders was assassinated by Amazon!

Yet... Guess now what's happening?

It seems very surprising, but many independent bookstores are starting to thrive!

How can that be?

It seems like it's a combination of various things. One is digital marketing (such as using Facebook). They also provide an experience of local authenticity - something that some people are starting to crave in our "online" age. Lastly, I'd say that the fact that Borders is gone also opened up some space for them to grow.

Here's are a couple articles about it... I find it fascinating, that small independent bookstores can survive these multiple attacks...!

The independent bookstore lives! Why Amazon’s conquest will never be complete
http://www.salon.com/2014/04/04/the_...r_be_complete/

For This Iconic Bookstore, Digital Isn't Just a Footnote
http://mashable.com/2013/11/07/strand-social-video/

Best wishes,

Dien

P.S. I was a fan of Borders, so I was sad to see them go. However, I like the small independent bookstores, too...!