Bookworms across the country are getting ready to celebrate Independent Bookstore Day on Saturday April 30th as a great way to find deals, exclusive releases and support their local businesses. The national holiday is celebrated every year on the last Saturday in April.
What is published?
For the list of articles and books exclusive to participating bookstores this Saturday, visit indiebound.org/independent-bookstore-day.
What is happening on site?
We’ve rounded up Cincinnati bookstores participating in Independent Bookstore Day this year and local businesses to support them throughout the year. Below you will find opening hours, events and further information.
Blue Marble Books
The Blue Marble Books spring cleaning sale returns this year for Independent Bookstore Day. For $15, buyers get a paper bag that they can load with as many books as they want. Alternatively, you can also purchase a reusable tote bag for $30.
The first three customers who spend $100 or more in store will also receive a swag bag with free gifts. Shop hours are 10:00 am to 3:00 pm Store hours are 10:00 am to 5:00 pm 1356 S Ft Thomas Ave., Fort Thomas.
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Cincy Buchbus
The Cincy Book Bus celebrated Independent Bookstore Day all week long. Place an order for the Book Bus’s recommended daily readings through its Facebook. Every order over $25 comes with a free Book Bus sticker. Orders of $35 or more include a free Independent Bookstore Day pin. Customers who place an order this week are also entered for a chance to win a free Independent Bookstore Day tote bag and bookable mug.
Local customers can pick up their ordered books at an event being hosted by Cincy Book Bus this Saturday. Find out more about Independent Bookstore Day offers and events on Facebook. cincybookbus.com.
Joseph-Beth Bookseller
This Saturday at 10:30 am, Joseph-Beth Booksellers is hosting a special storytelling and book signing with Cincinnati-born author Will Hillenbrand, followed by book signings with local author and reporter Alice Connor and John Kiesewetter at 11 am
Shoppers can also enjoy sundries, find gifts for kids, and get free dessert with the purchase of an appetizer at Brontë Bistro. Gives Back members will also earn double points throughout the week. Open Monday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. 2692 Madison Rd., Norwood.
Here are other independent bookstores you can support throughout the year:
Cincy bookshelf
Cincy Book Rack sells new and used books, puzzles, manga comics, board games, roleplaying games, and trading card games. Instead of spending cash on trade-ins, the store has an in-store credit system that gives customers a percentage off their purchases when they trade in used books. Open Monday and Tuesday from 10am to 8pm, Wednesday to Saturday from 10am to 9pm and Sunday from 12pm to 6pm. 8315 Beechmont Avenue, Anderson.
The bookshelf
The bookshelf sells books for children and adults, greeting cards, puzzles, children’s games and plush toys. The bookstore also hosts events with authors and supplies books to schools. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm, Sunday 1pm to 5pm 7754 Camargo Road No. 5, Madeira.
Ohio Bookstore
The Ohio Book Store has five floors of books and magazines. The shop also has a bindery where books can be repaired and restored and a large part of this business is the restoration of children’s books. Most of the store’s inventory consists of used and older books. Open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 726 Main St., Downtown.
Duttenhofer’s books
Duttenhofer’s buys and sells books and also offers children’s t-shirts and vintage illustrations. Open Tuesday through Saturday 12pm to 6pm, Sunday 12pm to 5pm 214 W. McMillan St., Clifton.
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Roebling Point Books & Coffee
Roebling Point offers books, coffee, hot chocolate, t-shirts, magazines and greeting cards. The store sells used children’s books from $2.50, new children’s books from $5.99 and collectible children’s books from $45. If you cannot find what you are looking for, Roebling can also make special orders. Open seven days a week from 7am to 6pm 306 Greenup St., Covington.
Smith & Hannon bookstore
Smith & Hannon is the only black owned bookstore in Cincinnati and is on Oprah’s list of black owned bookstores. The store sells new and used books, sculptures, bookmarks, cards, prints, t-shirts, puzzles and more.
The inventory highlights African American authors and offers a wide variety of authors and genres. The store’s book selection includes photography, non-fiction, biography, cooking, children, young adults, politics and more. Open Tuesday through Sunday 10am to 5pm 1405 Vine St., Over-the-Rhine.
Friends’ thrift store at the Warehouse
Friends’ Thrift Bookstore sells used books, CDs, DVDs, board games, vinyl records, greeting cards, puzzles and graphic novels. Her primary responsibility is to support the Cincinnati Library and its programs, particularly the library’s children’s program. The store maintains its inventory from donations from the Cincinnati Library and the public.
The department store sells thousands of children’s books for all ages and also offers memberships where members receive special discounts. The camp also has promotions throughout the year. Open by appointment Monday 2pm to 7pm, Wednesday 10am to 5pm, Saturday 10am to 7pm and Sunday 10am to 5pm 8456 Vine St., Hartwell.