What's Happening?
Independent bookstores in Los Angeles are celebrating Bookstore Romance Day on August 9 with a variety of events including author talks, book bedazzling, and giveaways. The initiative, launched by Oregon bookseller Billie Bloebaum in 2019, aims to bridge the gap between romance readers and independent bookstores, which have historically been perceived as less welcoming to the romance genre. The event has grown significantly, with over 600 participating locations worldwide in 2025. Notable romance-only bookstores in the U.S. include the Ripped Bodice in Culver City and Heartbound in Anaheim.
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Why It's Important?
Bookstore Romance Day highlights the evolving relationship between independent bookstores and the romance genre, which is a significant segment of the book market. By embracing romance readers, independent bookstores can expand their customer base and increase sales. The event also underscores the importance of community engagement and support for local businesses. As independent bookstores face challenges from online retailers, initiatives like this can help them remain competitive and relevant.
