115 Independent Bookstores Open in 2007

The following information was encouraging after all the doom and gloom which we generally hear from the MSM (mainstream media) about American reading habits.

"The American Booksellers Association welcomed 115 new bookstores that opened for business in 2007. This was the third year in a row that the number of bookstore openings topped one hundred.

'We're happy to report that 115 ABA member stores opened in 2007,' said ABA CEO Avin Mark Domnitz. 'This is very good news and an indication of a growing trend among communities that are recognizing the unique contributions of local independent businesses. These new ABA member stores offer a one-of-a-kind environment and knowledgeable owners and staff who are dedicated to serving their neighborhoods.'

The new bookstore openings were spread across 35 states, and included a branch store of Florida's Books & Books on Grand Cayman Island and a member store in La Paz, Mexico. The largest number of openings was in California, which welcomed 17 new stores; followed by eight openings in New York; seven each in Georgia and Oregon; six in Michigan; and five each in Colorado, Minnesota, and North Carolina.

The move to local independent businesses that are tailored to specific communities is a refreshing move away from the mega-retailers. This is a trend which should fit in well with the South Padre Island business community.

Anyway, I hope so!!