Feminist+Bookstores



The Death of Feminist Bookstores? by Kelli Kramer

**Feminist bookstores ** first emerged in the early 1970’s in response to an outcry for a woman’s space and a place to harbor feminist literature. They seemed to be a natural byproduct of the feminist movement that was taking place across the United States and Canada. After the first feminist bookstore, [|Amazon], opened its doors to the public in 1970, several more were soon to follow. Unfortunately, it appears that the initial effect is wearing off and feminist bookstores just can’t compete with the discount dealing mega stores that are constantly trying to undercut them. Currently, feminist bookstores are seeing a rapid decrease in sales and clientele, and even some of the most successful stores are having difficulties staying afloat. Independent bookstores are finding new ways to fire back though, and there are things the consumer can do to help.

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Feminist bookstores host a wide variety of books with topics and genres such as abuse, anti-violence, divorce, erotica, fantasy, sexuality, and spirituality to name a few. In the 1970’s these types of books could only be found in feminist bookstores. Since the creation of the internet, these types of materials have become far more accessible. Major retailers are also beginning to carry such materials. However, many feminist argue that while retailers may carry the same books, they aren't able to replicate the sense of community generated by feminist bookstores. While this may very well be true, it does not help with regards to competitive pricing. It seems the issue lies in the fact that all the services feminist bookstores do offer, that set them apart from the major players, are free. With the introduction of such technology as Kindles and iPads, bookstores in general are struggling, making it all the harder for specialized  and independent bookstores. There are also the threats of internet retailers, like Amazon.com, and even the major chains are slashing prices. Currently, the number of feminist bookstores has dwindled from one hundred twenty across U.S. and Canada to just thirteen. =====

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Recently, I visited one of these bookstores, **[|Charis Books & More]** in Atlanta, to find out what their secret was to staying in business. I talked with employee, Elizabeth Anderson, who told me that even Charis struggles to make a profit. She continued by saying that if it weren't for the support of the community they would not have been able to continue their business. When I asked her why feminist bookstores are so important to the community, she informed me that without them new authors would never get the opportunity to have their books on store shelves. Unlike major chains, Charis does not remove books from their shelves after trial periods. Not only that, but since Charis is locally owned the money they make ends up going back into the community. After my talk with Anderson and watching the customers and employees interact, I quickly realized that the community was what was holding this store together. Without our support feminist bookstores will continue to close until they become extinct. =====

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So, how can we as consumers retaliate and save feminist bookstores? Well, there are several things we can do. First and most obvious is to buy your books at local feminist bookstores, and if that is not possible then order them off a website that is connected to such a bookstore. There are further steps that can be taken as well. For instance, many feminist bookstores are greatly appreciative to anyone that is willing to donate their time and help out in their stores. Several of these types of stores are understaffed and could use the additional help. You could also just simply mention to friends or co-workers how much you love your local feminist bookstore. You’d be surprised how many people probably don’t even know they are out there. Just by taking these simple actions you can really make a difference in determining whether a bookstore stays in business or not. When considering all that these bookstores have done for communities, we should at least be willing to support them through such hard economic times. =====