Where it all began.
The ABA launched Book Sense in 1999 to bring publishers, authors, bookstores, and passionate readers together. By spotlighting the best books (The Book Sense Picks), the best booksellers, and the best bookstores, Book Sense built a devoted circle of literature lovers with a fiercely independent streak. Book Sense fans and participants know that independent booksellers provide individual experiences, helping customers find the book for them, not just the flavor of the month.

Turn the page, spread the word.
IndieBound takes Book Sense to the next level by empowering each member of the community to stand up and be proud. Love good books? Love sharing that passion with fellow readers? Love your local independent store? IndieBound celebrates the enthusiasm and energy of dedicated book fans and spreads the news. Both within the four walls of your favorite bookstore or outside them, IndieBound raises awareness of the inimitable and inestimable value of independent businesses.

Indie is everywhere.
Though IndieBound was created by - and for - book lovers, the IndieBound movement extends beyond reading. Just as each town is special, the local businesses that serve that community provide for their consitutents in a way that homogenized, international chain establishments never could. Whether you’ve found the perfect independent coffee shop, record store, hardware store, or other locally-owned business, IndieBound will help you get the word out.

The best of both worlds.
IndieBound builds upon the foundation of the Book Sense program, including:

Want to learn more?
I am a bookseller.
I am a publisher.
I am a reader and a bookstore customer.