My home town had a charming, independent book store. The folks who worked there were well-read and happy to make recommendations. What they didn't have in stock they could get in a day or two. It always hosted book signings for local authors. But about five years ago - was it more? - it went the way of so many independent books stores, and closed its doors. I still pass the storefront frequently and it has yet to find a new tenant.
The nearest remaining book store was a Borders in a neighboring town. It survived the first round of closings of Borders branches, but now that the company is liquidating, it too, will shut down - possibly as early as this week. That store was roomy, and a good place to hang out and browse.
It has long been clear which way the wind is blowing for book stores large and small, but it's hard to quantify the loss. Browsing online is not the same thing as browsing through tables and stacks of books. Nor does it offer that camaraderie of shopping and hanging out with fellow readers. That said, if I am going to be honest, I buy a lot more books now that I have a Kindle - I'm paying less but I'm buying more. I read a book review and the next minute I am downloading a book. I've also ordered a lot of hardcover and paperback books at Amazon. So I am clearly part of the problem that has lead to the demise of the stores I purport to love so well.
Sigh. I'm conflicted.
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