Independent Bookstore Day is Saturday. Here’s where to celebrate in NH

You can’t walk into Amazon, pick up an espresso, or ask a friendly merchant for book recommendations. Nothing can replace an independent bookstore for its service, community, and support of local commerce. That’s what Independent Bookstore Day, held this year on Saturday, April 27, is all about. Independent Bookstore Day started in 2013 to promote, celebrate, and highlight the value of the independent bookstore community. This year there are over 900 stores throughout the country are participating. Here are some of those that are celebrating in New Hampshire:

Gibson’s Bookstore, 45 South Main St., Concord, will celebrate with a bookstore bingo, advanced reader copy giveaways, a raffle, double stamps for frequent buyer cards, and Independent Bookstore Day exclusive items.

Toadstool Bookshops, 12 Depot Square, Peterborough, and 12 Emerald Street, Keene will celebrate with a 20% discount on all hardcover books.

Balin Books, 375 Amherst St., Somerset Plaza, Nashua invites the public to join them “in recognizing the impact independent bookstores have on the local community.” Exclusive items and treats will be available from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. To find out more about the offerings, click here.

Bookery, 844 Elm St., Manchester, is celebrating with a golden ticket hidden somewhere in the store. The person who finds it will win a $100 Bookery gift card. Clues will be posted to our Instagram story throughout the day. There are also Bookery-themed crossword puzzles available in our store now. If filled out correctly and submitted by the end of Independent Bookstore Day, you’ll be entered into a raffle to win a $50 gift card. The Ukeladies will provide entertainment at 3 p.m. and Magic Man will perform. There will also be freebie bags and Bookery swag to give to customers throughout the day. The café will also be open during the festivities.

White Birch Books, 2568 White Mountain Hwy, North Conway will celebrate 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. with special merchandise, giveaways, fun activities, and a focus on all things that make independent bookstores awesome. Look for the Golden Ticket and your chance to win 12 free audiobooks. And there will be other goodies hidden such as special gift cards and coupons. Take a picture at a selfie station, and add your favorite title to the Wall of Book Love. End the day with a visit from author Casey Sherman and his new true crime thriller, “A Murder in Hollywood.”