Interactive Independent Bookstore Day Map Goes Live

Readers awaiting the May 2 celebration of Independent Bookstore Day (IBD) can now use an interactive Independent Bookstore Day map to find the more than 350 bookstores that will be selling the event’s special literary-themed merchandise.

Earlier this year, booksellers had the opportunity to order exclusive books and literary art pieces designed especially for Independent Bookstore Day, and hundreds carefully chose their favorites to share with their communities.

The 16 limited-edition items include a signed chapbook from Roxane Gay, a color broadside from Stephen King’s upcoming novel, Finders Keepers, and an original illustration by Captain Underpants series author and illustrator Dav Pilkey. High-resolution images of the merchandise can be found here.

The Independent Bookstore Day map features stores that will be offering IBD merchandise, though not all stores will be carrying all items. Bookstores that did not order IBD merchandise are still invited to participate on May 2 by planning in-store celebrations, using the Independent Bookstore Day logo, and ordering Independent Bookstore Day tote bags.

Stores already focusing on party planning include several New York City shops that have banded together to form NYC Bookstore Day, which will feature an after party sponsored by Tumblr, Book Riot, and Literary Hub. On the opposite coast, the San Francisco Bike Coalition will be leading a bicycle tour of area bookstores.

Independent Bookstore Day is also partnering with Shelf Awareness in efforts to get the word out about the May 2 celebration to readers through its consumer newsletter.

Learn more about Independent Bookstore Day and how to participate here and follow Independent Bookstore Day on Facebook and Twitter.