9 Nonprofit & Collective Bookstores That Every Book-Lover Needs To Visit And Support

Any book-lover will tell you that independent bookstores are the foundation of our communities. But within the category of independent bookstores, there's another very special category of shops: the nonprofit and collectively-owned bookstores. The profits from their sales usually go towards keeping the shop open and freely available for events or towards a good cause. It's a win/win — you get more books, and you get to give back to your community.

In an interview with Bustle about Independent Bookstore Day in April 2018, author Celeste Ng said: "Whenever you buy at an independent bookstore, most of that money stays in your immediate community. I learned recently that shifting even a small percentage of your book buying — as little as 1 in every 10 books you buy — goes a huge way towards the health of your local bookstore and your community. So when you shop locally, you’re helping the local economy, too."

This is especially true for nonprofit and collectively-owned bookstores, which often serve as safe spaces for community and conversation. Plus, you'll find that plenty of these bookstores are politically-minded and are focused on feminist ideologies and policies that ensure the equality of all people.

I love bookstores, and I'm always looking for a new place to browse. But I especially love it when I can shop for a good cause. So no matter where you are in the United States, here are some fantastic nonprofit and collective bookstores that you need to check out: