What's Happening?
The Mountains and Plains Independent Booksellers Association (MPIBA) held its annual FallCon in Denver, drawing 238 booksellers and 133 vendors. The event featured a sold-out exhibit area and lively exchanges among participants. Key activities included a breakfast keynote with editors from mission-driven presses and sessions where veteran booksellers shared expertise with newcomers. The conference emphasized community building among booksellers, with discussions on inventory management, author events, and marketing strategies. Attendees highlighted the importance of fostering a community of booksellers in a geographically diverse region.
Why It's Important?
FallCon 2025 underscores the vital role independent booksellers play in promoting literature and fostering community engagement. The event highlights the challenges and opportunities faced by independent bookstores, particularly in a post-pandemic landscape. By focusing on community and collaboration, booksellers can enhance their resilience and adapt to changing market conditions. The conference also serves as a platform for sharing best practices and innovative ideas, which can help bookstores thrive in a competitive retail environment.
What's Next?
As the conference concludes, booksellers will return to their communities with new insights and strategies to implement. The focus on community engagement and collaboration is likely to continue, with bookstores exploring new ways to connect with readers and support local authors. The MPIBA and its members may also advocate for policies that support independent bookstores and promote literacy. Future events will likely build on the themes of community and innovation, further strengthening the independent bookselling sector.
