2020 has turned out to be a pretty cursed year and everyone is feeling it. Maybe you can’t spend the holidays with your loved ones this year or you’re facing unemployment, there is a lot to worry about.
Small businesses and creators have been hit hard by the economy as well. Independent bookstores are in danger of closing their doors permanently, which not only means job loss but a cultural loss to the communities they serve. Many small creators suddenly find their side hustle is now their main income source while also facing negative impacts from the economy.
So, this holiday season, to make the rest of the year suck a little less, shop to support small businesses and creators. Here are the best websites to support the little guy from the comfort of your own home.
Smashwords
Smashwords is an ebook website dedicated to independent authors and small publishing companies. It’s a great place to not only find gift ideas for your friends and family but to also treat yourself to some escapism to destress during the holidays. Even better, every December they have an epic End of Year sale where authors slash their prices. There is even a 100% off category for the especially dedicated bargain hunters.
The End of Year sale starts December 18th and ends January 1st, so don’t miss this opportunity to help indie authors this holiday season.
Libro.FM
Libro.FM is an audiobook website that shares the profits with an independent bookstore of your choice. You can gift people specific audiobooks or just a membership to their subscription service. It’s a great way to support your local bookstore from the comfort of your own home and it’s an easy gift for people who are difficult to shop for.
Bookshop.org
Bookshop.org is less than a year old but it has already made a big splash in the book world. Sharing its profits with independently-owned bookstores all over the United States, it has already raised over $9 million to support local bookstores.
With the holidays, this year, shipping delays are to be expected and Bookshop has been warning people about shortages and shipping problems for months. Now, the deadline to get a package shipped by priority mail is December 16th. After that, there’s no guarantee your package will be shipped by Christmas. However, Bookshop just started selling virtual gift cards. A portion of the money will go to local bookstores and your loved ones will be able to purchase books in the new year when shortages are replenished.
Etsy
For those looking to give bookish gifts, or other cute unique items, Etsy is the perfect place to look. One of the biggest online marketplaces for small creators, you can find high-quality gifts while supporting local businesses. With the wide variety of items, there’s something for everyone.
Bonus: BINC Gift Guide
The Book Industry Charitable Foundation, or BINC, is the only nonprofit dedicated to helping struggling independent bookstores and comic shops. This year, they’ve published a gift guide full of more goodies where the profits will go to support either BINC or booksellers and comic retailers directly. You can find apparel, books, masks, and other bookish gifts that all help local bookstores and comic shops.
This year is definitely cursed, and the holidays aren’t quite the same in the middle of a pandemic. But by supporting small businesses and creators, the curse can be lifted at least a little.
Disclaimer: The Bookshop and Smashwords links are affiliate links, which