Anybody who appreciates the community value of their local independent bookstore knows about the monetary pressure imposed by Amazon and internet-based competitors.
So if you really appreciate the value of independent booksellers and the literary community it supports, why shouldn’t you reciprocate? This NY Times article laments the admission charges that independent booksellers are introducing for readings and events, which seemingly undermines the value of the institution, presuming that the services they offer are not worth our money. But alas, please don’t complain about giving money to independent bookstores!