Gear Up for Indies First 2024

The 12th anniversary of Indies First is just over a month away on Saturday, November 30! In addition to in-store posters and eye-catching window displays, we’ve got plenty of additional resources to help you make this year’s event a success.

Here’s how you can get the word out and join in the national celebration:

Take Advantage of Special Publisher Offers

Don’t forget to log in to find a range of special publisher offers shared just for you. These are great opportunities to stock up on exciting titles and deals during the holiday season.

Share the Indie Bookstore Ambassador Assets

In case you missed it, Trevor Noah will serve as the 2024-2025 Indie Bookstore Ambassador! We’ve created assets to promote indie bookstores and Indies First on social media, store websites, and in newsletters.

Promote Indies First and Small Business Saturday with American Express

Visit Shop Small to download marketing materials for Small Business Saturday. Additionally, add your bookstore to the American Express Shop Small Map for an easy way for readers to find you!

Amplify Audiobook Sales with Libro.fm’s Shop Small Sale

• Libro.fm’s Shop Small Sale
  • Libro.fm's limited-time sale on bestselling audiobooks (many $5 or less) runs November 26-December 2.
  • Link: Libro.fm/sale
  • Assets: Shop Small Sale (More assets will be added to the folder featuring books from sale.) 
• Indies First Special membership offers 
  • Share these special membership offers, good for 3 audiobooks for the price of 1 for customers starting a new 1 credit per month membership
  • Link: Libro.fm
  • Assets: Indies First Member Offers
• Holiday Gifts (not just for Indies First)
  • ​The gift of audiobook credit bundles supports your bookshop!
  • Link: Libro.fm/gift
  • Assets: Holiday Gifts

Celebrate University Press Week

Did you know University Press Week is right around the corner, from November 11–15? Hosted by the Association of University Presses, this week is all about celebrating the essential work of university presses. It’s a great opportunity to showcase important scholarship and ideas that spark conversations worldwide. Be sure to check out their reading list, events, and marketing resources and spread the love for university press books.

Harness the Power of Social Media

Now is the perfect time to use your social media channels to remind everyone about the importance of shopping local. Check out AMIBA’s Shop Indie Local programs for partnership ideas and ready-made assets to amplify your message. Plaid Friday and Cider Monday are the perfect bookend events to keep the Indies First spirit alive throughout Thanksgiving weekend!

Plus, don’t forget to post photos of your events using the hashtag #IndiesFirst — we’ll be liking and reposting as much as possible! Keep an eye on IndieBound’s Facebook and ABA’s Instagram for event updates and exciting shares.

Get the Word Out Locally

Have you reached out to your local media yet? Now’s the time to let your community know about your plans! Reach out to newspapers, bloggers, and radio stations to see if they’re covering any local holiday events. Is your store hosting a special author or a unique event? Make sure they’re in the loop!

Also, don’t overlook the power of social media — interact with local media outlets on Facebook, Threads, or other platforms by commenting and sharing your store’s plans.