Afraid the robots are taking over? Just visit your local bookstore

By James Newcomb | July 22, 2023

I’ve talked quite a bit about AI and its proper role in creating content. Of course there’s the concern that people will just be lazy in having ChatGPT do their thinking for them, or worse never learn vital communications skills which can only be mastered through intensive practice over the course of a long period of time. Then there’s the fear of “the robots” taking over entirely, with the world as we know it becoming the stuff of sci-fi, dystopian movies and books.

Whether one fears these things, or perhaps has their own fears regarding AI, the stubborn survival of the local bookstore gives some hope.

Now I love to browse my Kindle Unlimited subscription and see what titles I can grab, and read while doing this and that away from the house. It’s great, super convenient, especially while traveling. But there’s just something about walking into a bookstore and being immersed in row upon row of books. You go to this section, that section, look to see if your favorite author who you met at a conference years ago has “made the cut” to be on their shelves.

The physicality of books, the smell of the pages, and the experience of turning them evoke a sense of connection and nostalgia that digital formats will never replicate nor replace.

Why? Because we’re social creatures, and no amount of tech will ever replace the basic human need to associate with people of like mind.

Here are a few of my favorite elements of physical bookstores.

Community Gathering Spaces: Many bookstores organize author readings, book signings, writing workshops, and book clubs, providing opportunities for readers to engage directly with their favorite authors and discover new voices. These events foster a sense of belonging and excitement, cultivating a supportive literary ecosystem.
Supporting Local Authors: Independent bookstores, in particular, take pride in promoting local literary talent by showcasing their works and offering them a platform to connect with readers. This support is invaluable for emerging authors, as it helps them gain visibility and build a loyal readership. Bookstore staff, with their passion for books, can also recommend local authors to customers, further bolstering their reach.
Curated Selections and Personalized Recommendations: Unlike online algorithms that suggest books based on algorithms and data, bookstore staff offer personalized recommendations based on their knowledge and understanding of their customers’ preferences. This human touch provides a unique experience that enhances the joy of book buying. Bookstores often curate their selections, highlighting hidden gems and curiosities that might otherwise go unnoticed. (Can you imagine raving about your uncle Roy’s chili recipe with your friend at Barnes and Noble, then all of a sudden a conveyor belt with a bunch of chili cookbooks appears in front of you? Me neither, which is all the more reason to love bookstores 🙂
Fostering a Reading Culture: By creating an environment that celebrates reading, bookstores play a vital role in nurturing a reading culture. They inspire a love for books in the younger generation, hosting children’s storytelling sessions and school visits. Bookstores also collaborate with schools, libraries, and community organizations to promote literacy and education.
Preserving Bookstore Traditions: Bookstores are the gatekeepers of literary traditions, preserving the legacy of printed books and their cultural significance. They keep alive the art of bookbinding, curation, and the joy of book ownership. Celebrating the physical book as an art form, bookstores contribute to the preservation of literary heritage in the digital age.

I love my Kindle, and I’ll never have to worry about a clogged toilet in a bathroom while reading it, but you’ve got to respect the longevity of physical bookstores in this age of instant gratification and unlimited info on demand. People simply crave community, and bookstores and libraries will always play a vital role in fostering that.

**Full disclosure: I did use ChatGPT to write the skeleton of this email, from which I customized it to my own style.

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