The Rise of Bookstores in Columbia as the Holiday Season Approaches

The Rise of Bookstores in Columbia as the Holiday Season Approaches

As the holiday season warms up in Columbia, many locals are flocking to the bustling Columbiana Centre mall, especially in the trendy Harbison shopping district. You might spot families navigating through the sparkling stores, children excitedly running to meet none other than Santa Claus, and shoppers sipping iced tea from Chick-fil-A with bags filled with new clothes and toys swinging from their arms. The festive atmosphere, buzzing with the sounds of holiday cheer, is undeniably infectious!

However, amidst all the gift shopping frenzy, there’s a delightful surprise waiting for book lovers— a shiny new Barnes & Noble bookstore! Yes, you read that right; this isn’t a throwback to the ’90s! The beloved bookseller opened its doors at Columbiana Centre in October, marking a major comeback in an area where it once thrived until its previous store closed back in 2013. Isn’t that nice to see?

Columbia Embraces Book Culture

The Barnes & Noble revival isn’t alone in this literary renaissance. The past couple of years have also seen a surge of independent bookstores popping up in the Columbia area. For instance, earlier this year, All Good Books took root at 734 Harden St. in Five Points, where they offer not just a plethora of books but also host exciting author events. It’s like a little slice of book heaven!

Then there’s Queer Haven Books, which set up shop this April in the Arcade Mall on Main Street. This independent bookstore, which proudly serves as a welcoming space for the LGBTQ community, has developed its unique charm by hosting gatherings and engaging events. December is already promising to be a bustling month!

Moreover, we can’t forget about the creative spirit that flourishes through pop-up shops and online retailers like Liberation Is Lit, revered at local events like the Soda City Market. With familiar mainstays like 2nd & Charles and Books-A-Million assisting along the way, it’s as if bookstores are truly having a glorious moment in the Midlands this holiday season!

Community Matters

In this vibrant atmosphere dominated by digital screens and online shopping, people are yearning for something more—an opportunity to feel the physical pages of a book between their fingers, and to share a space with fellow book lovers on a lazy weekend afternoon. The co-founder of All Good Books, Clint Wallace, captured this sentiment perfectly when he stated, “People know that this is important and they are sort of craving it.” Isn’t it refreshing to see such enthusiasm for reading?

If you venture into Queer Haven Books, you might discover a storefront buzzing with energy and community spirit. Co-owner Baker Rogers noted the lively gatherings they host, like an author event that brought nearly a dozen authors for readings just last week! She emphasized that folks are turning to physical bookstores not just for the books, but for a sense of belonging. “In times like these, we need community,” said Rogers. And how true that is!

Holiday Wishes for Bookstores

As the holidays draw near, both new and established bookstores are keenly hoping for a booming shopping season. Queer Haven is gearing up for a smashing Black Friday sale, while All Good Books plans to have extra copies of best-selling titles ready to impress their clientele.

Interestingly, this book-loving culture isn’t exclusive to Columbia. Across the U.S., there’s a stirring revival of independent bookstores. Reports indicated a significant increase in membership for the American Booksellers Association, marking a promising trend for bookstores everywhere. With nearly 200 independent bookstores expected to open in the coming years, it feels wonderful to be part of this big literary family!

Moreover, the rise of online platforms like BookTok, where readers passionately discuss their favorite books, is heightening interest in the literary world. Wallace shared candidly, “We love enthusiasm for reading.” It’s fascinating how social media has managed to connect so many readers, driving them to want the physical experience of shopping in bookstores while still retaining those digital connections!

Ultimately, as locals flock to the Columbiana Centre this holiday season to wrap up gifts and enjoy the festive spirit, they’ll be met with the comforting sight of bustling bookstores, eager to welcome all book enthusiasts looking for that perfect holiday read or gift. Just remember, between all the hustle and bustle, there lies a wonderful sense of community centered around books that can’t be overlooked!