Creating a post on Facebook, I used this photo which is an advertisement for an independent booksellers catalog. “Give the Gift of Books” - hmmm.

When we give a book, we give so much more than just a set of pages bound and covered. We give more than just a story and some pictures. The gift of a book is a passport to adventure, a door through which you walk into mystery, a curtain behind which you find romance, a portal through which you meet magical beings, an opening to a new world that has not previously been explored.

Sharing a love of reading with people young and old is a gift in and of itself. Sharing lists of good books you’ve read is an act of friendship. Taking the time to find and purchase a book for someone is an expression of love.

This holiday season, when you think of what you might like to give those on your list, think about the treasure trove that can be found in your local bookstore! If the store doesn’t have it, they can often order it for you. And if you keep shopping at that store, it will be there when you want to browse and find something new. Yes, it’s easier to go online and have a book delivered to your doorstep in days, but if you want to help your community thrive, keep your business local.

Local small businesses are a gift to the community the way a book is a gift to a friend or loved one.

See you at the store!