The 13th anniversary of Indies First is just over a month away on Saturday, November 29! In addition to in-store posters and eye-catching window displays, we’ve got plenty of additional resources to help you make this year’s event a success.
Here’s how you can get the word out and join in the national celebration:
Take Advantage of Special Publisher Offers
Don’t forget to log in to find a range of special publisher offers shared just for you. These are great opportunities to stock up on exciting titles and deals during the holiday season.
Share the Indie Bookstore Ambassador Assets
In case you missed it, LeVar Burton will serve as the 2025-2026 Indie Bookstore Ambassador! We’ve created assets to promote indie bookstores and Indies First on social media, store websites, and in newsletters.
Promote Indies First and Small Business Saturday with American Express
Visit Shop Small to download marketing materials for Small Business Saturday. Additionally, add your bookstore to the American Express Shop Small Map for an easy way for readers to find you!
Market Free Shipping through Bookshop.org
- Bookshop.org is again offering free shipping over the holiday weekend! More details to come.
Amplify Audiobook Sales with Libro.fm’s Shop Small Sale
Already a Libro.fm partner? Here are three things you can do to get ready for Indies First/Small Business Saturday:
- Highlight audiobook gifts: Check out Libro.fm's holiday guide for handselling tips, FAQs on audiobook gifts and a month by month checklist.
- Mark your calendar for Libro.fm’s Shop Small Sale: Libro.fm's limited-time sale on bestselling audiobooks (many $5 or less) runs November 25–December 1. Find assets in the bookseller hub (note more will be added as we get closer).
- Plan to share special membership offers: We have promo codes and graphics for Plaid Friday, Cider Monday, Indies First, and Small Business Saturday. The offer for each code is 3 audiobooks for the price of 1 with a new 1 credit per month membership. Find assets in the bookseller hub.
Celebrate University Press Week
Did you know University Press Week is right around the corner, from November 10 to 14? Hosted by the Association of University Presses, this week is all about celebrating the essential work of university presses. It’s a great opportunity to showcase important scholarship and ideas that spark conversations worldwide. Be sure to check out their reading list, events, and marketing resources and spread the love for university press books.
Harness the Power of Social Media
Now is the perfect time to use your social media channels to remind everyone about the importance of shopping local. Check out AMIBA’s Shop Indie Local programs for partnership ideas and ready-made assets to amplify your message. Plaid Friday and Cider Monday are the perfect bookend events to keep the Indies First spirit alive throughout Thanksgiving weekend! Our partners at the American Independent Business Alliance (AMIBA) shared assets for the 2025 Shop Indie Local Holiday campaign for booksellers to use as part of their holiday marketing.
Plus, don’t forget to post photos of your events using the hashtag #IndiesFirst — we’ll be liking and reposting as much as possible! Keep an eye on IndieBound’s Facebook and ABA’s Instagram for event updates and exciting shares.
Get the Word Out Locally
Have you reached out to your local media yet? Now’s the time to let your community know about your plans! Reach out to newspapers, bloggers, and radio stations to see if they’re covering any local holiday events. Is your store hosting a special author or a unique event? Make sure they’re in the loop!
Also, don’t overlook the power of social media — interact with local media outlets on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, or other platforms by commenting and sharing your store’s plans.