Come celebrate independent bookstores on April 27. (Photo provided — Diane Chase)

I shop online. Written down, it sounds like a confession, but I realize that we can’t always get what we want from the store around the corner. We also can’t always get what we want online.

Though online shopping is touted as handy. My family doesn’t always find the door-to-door selling point that much of a convenience. It feels isolating. We enjoy the ability to explore and discover local services right in our own backyard.

No matter where I go, I always search for an independent bookstore. The book prices are not that different and I still have to wait for the “free” shipping if I buy online. If the book I want isn’t at my bookstore, I can also have it shipped. The main reason my family chooses independent stores is always the customer service. There are also added benefits an online store can’t offer like story times/crafts for the young ones and Book Club Skype sessions with award-winning authors. Each time I enter through the door there is someone there that provides a connection, whether is through a love of reading, writing or drawing.

The 5th annual Independent Bookstore Day is taking place around the nation on April 27.

It’s the perfect opportunity to walk into a locally owned bookstore and find out what all the fuss is about. The national celebration varies from location to location and event to event. It doesn’t matter if you are in the Adirondacks or somewhere else; it is a chance to meet readers, authors, and show support for an indie shop.

Since 1973, The Bookstore Plus, 2491 Main St., Lake Placid has offered a variety of materials and activities to visitors and the community.

In addition to a wide range of new releases and Adirondack literature, the store has an extensive supply of stationary/cards, notebooks and writing implements, picture framing, and fine art supplies. This Independent Bookstore Day, The Bookstore Plus is hosting a party from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with all sorts of activities planned. Enjoy morning mimosas or afternoon free cupcakes. There will be a instore scavenger hunt with one participant winning a $50 gift certificate, discounts and two different author autograph sessions. Make sure to enjoy the “Living Reading Space” in their display window.

The Book Nook, LLC, 7A Broadway, Saranac Lake, is a cozy shop with hand-hewn log shelves and a perfect Adirondack setting for browsing new books. Story times, author visits, and monthly book clubs are just a few of the activities happening during store hours.

On Independent Bookstore Day, stop by for the chance to win a $25 gift certificate and a bag of books. There will also be a special 3 p.m. story time.

I hope you are able to find the perfect book or gift during Independent Bookstore Day. At the most you will win prizes, participate in games, and meet other book lovers. At the very least, you will meet a human who will generously guide you to some amazing book suggestions. Enjoy!

—

Diane Chase is the author of the “Adirondack Family

Activities” guidebook series, “Adirondack Family Time: Your Four-Season Guide to Over 300 Activities.” For more family-friendly activities go to www.adirondackfamilytime.com.