Booksellers on Becoming Inclusive Places for Dialogue and Discovery Through Activism

Following a series of bookseller discussions at the American Booksellers Association’s 10 Spring Forums and at Winter Institute 12, ABA has compiled a comprehensive list of bookseller suggestions aimed at helping stores develop strategies for strengthening the unique role they play in their communities.

The document, “Bookstores — An Inclusive Place for Dialogue and Discovery,” is available in the Education Curriculum on BookWeb (a username and password are required; booksellers needing login information can e-mail [email protected]).

The numerous suggestions shared by booksellers from a broad range of member stores are organized under six keywords: activism, community, diversity, empathy, outreach, and sanctuary.

In the first of a series of articles highlighting each keyword, here are the many suggestions provided for the category of activism.

The suggestions below may not work for every store; booksellers are encouraged to consider their store culture, community, and business goals when beginning any new initiative.

Booksellers who have implemented any of these suggestions in their stores are encouraged to let ABA know.

ACTIVISM

• Store values are reflected by the books that you choose to stock on your shelves. Be aware that those decisions may be viewed differently by different customers.
• Booksellers are on the front line of customer questions about free speech issues. Communicate your free speech and free expression policy to your staff. Give them the information they need to explain your policy regarding the books you carry or don’t carry. Visit the American Booksellers for Free Expression’s resource page on BookWeb.
• Use advocacy materials from outside groups, such as Black Lives Matter signs in windows, to show support for marginalized groups and/or other groups that you think need your support.
• Be aware that even non-political statements can be perceived as political at this time.
• Have a postcard-writing event to encourage your community to interact with elected officials.
• Host teach-ins that are not tied to books. Ideas for teach-ins include panels on civil rights, immigration, or climate. Invite experts from local advocacy organizations to participate.
• Promote voter sign-up.
• Start a social justice book club or other book club that highlights the activism in which your store participates.
• Offer your space to groups that reflect your store mission.