Why Independent Bookshops Matter More Than Ever

Independent Bookshop Week 2026 runs from Saturday 13th June to Saturday 20th June 2026. At a time when online retailers and large chains dominate the book market, independent bookshops offer something different: a focus on people, local connections and personal recommendations over algorithms and sales trends.

For self-published authors, independent bookshops can be especially valuable. Many indie authors find it hard to gain visibility through mainstream retail channels, but local bookshops are often more willing to support new and independent authors.

Bookshops also contribute significantly to their wider communities. They create spaces for events, reading groups and support local businesses and are a crucial part of a thriving high street. The recent growth in specific genre-led bookshops in the UK means that fans of a particular genre can find a space to network and discuss their favourite books and authors with a supportive group of people.

As Independent Bookshop Week celebrates its 20th year, it is a chance to recognise the value these shops bring not only to the publishing industry but also to the local communities, authors and readers who continue to support them. 

Supporting Independent Authors

At Troubador, we love independent bookshops for the important role they play in championing self-published authors, particularly those with a local connection to the area or whose book is relevant to the bookshop’s area or specialism. For self-published authors, visibility is often one of the biggest challenges. The market has become increasingly crowded, with thousands of new titles published every day, making it difficult for self-published authors to stand out. This is where independent bookshops can make a real difference.

Independent booksellers are usually more closely involved in selecting stock than larger chain outlets – where buying decisions are often made at a head office level. Booksellers at local bookshops are often more closely involved in selecting stock and recommending titles to customers and if they’ve enjoyed a book they are more likely to recommend it to their customers. These personal recommendations can be incredibly valuable, particularly for self-published authors who may not have large marketing budgets behind them.

We’ve written in more detail in the past about how a self-published author can build relationships with local bookshops, but our strongest recommendation is to get involved with the bookshop yourself. If you’ve lived in the area for twenty years but have never visited the bookshop except to ask if they’ll stock your book, you may not receive the response you’re looking for. Many bookshops are keen to support authors from the local area by stocking their books, hosting launches or organising signings and events, so make sure you do your part as a reader and attend events for other authors as well.

Events hosted by independent bookshops are another major benefit. Author talks, workshops, book launches and reading groups allow self-published authors to meet readers face-to-face and build stronger relationships with their audience. These events also help authors become part of wider literary communities, connecting them with other writers, readers and local organisations. For many independent authors, these in-person connections are essential for building confidence, visibility and long-term support.

The rise of genre-focused independent bookshops has created even more opportunities for self-published authors. Across the UK, specialist bookshops focusing on genres such as romance, crime, children’s fiction and LGBTQ+ literature have developed loyal communities of readers who are actively searching for new voices and are not necessarily tied to traditional methods of publication. Self-published authors often thrive within these genres, and independent bookshops can help connect them directly with enthusiastic readers who may not discover them through mainstream retail channels.

Importantly, independent bookshops offer something that online algorithms cannot: genuine human recommendation and conversation. Algorithms tend to favour books that are already performing well commercially or authors whose previous books have done especially well, making it harder for newer or niche authors to break through. Independent booksellers, on the other hand, can champion books based on quality, originality and local interest. A passionate recommendation from a bookseller can introduce readers to authors they may never otherwise encounter.

As the publishing industry continues to evolve, the relationship between self-published authors and independent bookshops is becoming increasingly important. Both rely heavily on community support, personal connection and word-of-mouth discovery. By supporting self-published authors, independent bookshops help create a more diverse and accessible literary landscape and authors can benefit enormously from a close relationship with an established indie.

Community Impact

Independent bookshops are much more than places to buy books. Across the UK, they serve as valuable community spaces that bring people together, support local culture and contribute to the character of towns and cities. While online retailers offer convenience, independent bookshops provide something that cannot be replicated digitally: a physical space where people can connect through a shared love of reading.

One of the most important roles independent bookshops play is creating a sense of community. Many host regular events such as author talks, book clubs, writing workshops and children's story sessions. These activities bring together people of different ages and backgrounds, helping to foster connections that extend beyond books themselves. For many readers, the local bookshop becomes a familiar and welcoming place where they can meet like-minded people and discover new interests.

Independent bookshops also play a key role in promoting literacy and encouraging a love of reading. By providing carefully curated selections of books and knowledgeable recommendations, booksellers help readers discover titles they might otherwise overlook. This personalised approach can be particularly valuable for young readers, who may benefit from guidance when choosing books that match their interests and reading abilities. Many independent bookshops work closely with local schools and organisations to support reading initiatives and literacy programmes within their communities.

Independent bookshops also make an important contribution to local economies. As small businesses, they create jobs, support local suppliers and help keep money circulating within the community. When customers choose to buy from an independent bookshop, they are supporting not only the shop itself but also the wider network of local businesses and services that benefit from a thriving high street.

The presence of an independent bookshop can also enhance the identity and attractiveness of a local area. Bookshops often become landmarks within their communities, helping to create distinctive town centres that attract visitors and encourage footfall for neighbouring businesses. In an era when many high streets face significant challenges, independent bookshops can contribute to creating vibrant and engaging local environments that encourage people to spend time in their communities rather than simply shopping online.

Perhaps most importantly, independent bookshops offer something increasingly rare in a fast-paced digital world: opportunities for genuine human interaction. Conversations with knowledgeable booksellers, discussions at book clubs and chance encounters with fellow readers all contribute to a richer and more connected community experience. These interactions help build relationships and strengthen the social fabric of local areas.

It is worth recognising the many ways independent bookshops contribute to community life. They support readers, writers, local businesses and cultural activities, while providing welcoming spaces where people can come together. Their value extends far beyond the books on their shelves, making them an important part of communities across the UK.

How Troubador Works With Independent Bookshops

At Troubador Publishing, we recognise the important role that independent bookshops play in helping readers discover new self-published authors and in supporting local literary communities. We have long been committed to helping our books reach bookshops across the UK and building strong relationships with the bookselling trade.

One of the ways we do this is through our dedicated sales and distribution operation. Unlike many self-publishing services that operate mainly on online platforms, Troubador operates its own distribution facility and actively sells titles to independent bookshops, wholesalers and retailers. This means that books published through Troubador can be ordered by bookshops either directly from us or through major wholesaler Gardners, making it easier for booksellers to access and stock our authors' titles.

Building relationships with independent booksellers is an important part of this process. Each year, members of the Troubador team attend the Gardners Trade Show at the Booksellers Association Conference, where publishers have the opportunity to meet independent booksellers from across the UK. These events allow us to showcase newly published books, discuss trends within the industry and demonstrate the quality and diversity of titles being produced by self-published authors.

These conversations are particularly valuable because independent booksellers are often looking for books that reflect the interests of their local communities. We regularly find that booksellers are interested in titles with local connections and are keen to discover new authors who may appeal to their customers. Troubador also supports bookshops by providing advance information about forthcoming releases. Our trade marketing team circulates information on selected new titles, including books by local authors, to local bookshops, helping booksellers identify books that may be of interest to their customers before publication. 

Events remain another key area of collaboration. Independent bookshops frequently host launches, signings and author talks, providing opportunities for authors to meet readers in person. Our distribution team can supply books directly to shops for launches and events, helping authors make the most of opportunities to connect with readers and our marketing team can help with producing marketing and promotional materials so that authors can get the most out of their event.

At a time when book discovery is increasingly driven by online algorithms, independent bookshops continue to offer something different: personal recommendations, local knowledge and a willingness to champion new voices. By working closely with booksellers, wholesalers and retailers, Troubador helps self-published authors access these important routes to readers. The result is a partnership that benefits authors, bookshops and the wider reading community alike.