Anne Lamott, Bird by Bird

This Saturday, April 29, is Independent Bookstore Day. So put on your dancing shoes and get thee to thy nearest independent bookstore and celebrate by buying a book or two or three — or a literary mug or note cards. There’s plenty of good news to hoist a glass to. The buy-local movement is boosting bookstores everywhere.

In 2009, the American Booksellers Association’s membership fell below 1500. But indies rebounded and over the past six years, the number of these intrepid ventures has actually increased by 25 percent. To celebrate, some 500 bookstores coast to coast are planning book events, from entertainment and book talks to food fests.

Watchung Booksellers, my hometown of Montclair’s beloved local indie, is a shining example of all that makes independent bookstores so special and creative: wonderful personal service, a book-loving staff, inspiring events, author book signings, loads of popular book clubs, and boundless community spirit. Browsing its shelves, ordering books, chatting with the friends I meet there, and getting expert advice from intrepid owner Margo Sage-EL and her enthusiastic team add so much joy to my day!

Given its entrepreneurial spirit, it’s no surprise then, that Watchung Booksellers is celebrating the resurgence of indies in style, with giveaways, a raffle, special merchandise, and author readings.

So whether you’re in Montclair, the Big Apple, Washington, D.C., Houston, or San Francisco, why not visit your favorite indie this Saturday, buy some new books, and write on!