Columbia’s Bookstore Boom: A New Chapter for Holiday Shoppers

Columbia’s Bookstore Boom: A New Chapter for Holiday Shoppers!

As the holiday season rolls around, folks in Columbia are heading to the bustling Columbiana Centre mall in the Harbison shopping district, eager to find the perfect gifts for loved ones. Picture this: families lined up to meet Santa Claus, a mix of holiday music in the air, and shoppers juggling bags filled with clothes and shoes—all while sipping Iced tea from Chick-fil-A. But hold on, this year, there’s something extra special in store.

Welcome Back, Barnes & Noble!

After years without a physical presence, a shiny new Barnes & Noble bookstore recently opened its doors at the Columbiana Centre in October. Yes, you heard that right! It’s hard to believe the book giant had left the area back in 2013, but now they’re back with a bang, joining another location that opened in March at the Shoppes at Woodhill on Garners Ferry Road.

This resurgence is the talk of the town, and many are excited to have the chance to dive into a world of books, turning pages and discovering new stories as they browse the shelves. And the news gets even better!

A Flourishing Book Scene

Columbia’s bookstore scene isn’t just about the big names; it’s about local heroes, too! Independent shops have been flourishing, breathing new life into the local reading culture. Just this year, All Good Books made its debut along Harden St. in Five Points, bringing with it an array of titles and author events that have locals buzzing with excitement.

And how about Queer Haven Books? This fabulous independent queer bookstore opened in the historic Arcade Mall this past April. Billed as South Carolina’s only independent queer bookstore, they are dedicated to fostering community and inclusivity, hosting author readings and gatherings that spotlight various stories and voices.

Bookstores: More Than Just Books

“It’s more than just selling books,” shared Baker Rogers, co-owner of Queer Haven Books. “People are yearning for community.” In this day and age, where e-books and social media have become the norm, these physical spaces are drawing book lovers who crave not only the tactile pleasure of holding a book but also the joy of sharing stories and experiences with others.

Even the folks at All Good Books agree! Co-founder Clint Wallace believes readers are looking for authentic, in-person experiences after years of isolation. “People know community is crucial and seem hungry for it,” he remarked. And it’s true—bookstores have transformed into community hubs, where visitors are not just shopping; they are connecting.

The Sweet Sound of Pages Turning

As both national and local bookstores work hard to attract customers this holiday season, they’re also riding the wave of a fascinating new trend. There’s a growing movement of readers engaging through platforms like BookTok, where people chat about their favorite reads and recommendations. “It’s fantastic to see such love for reading,” Wallace shared. “We believe that the more you read, the more you’ll want to keep reading.”

Get Ready for the Holidays!

As shoppers flock to Columbia’s bookstores, they’re not just hunting for the best deals; they’re on a quest for meaningful gifts and unique treasures. Queer Haven Books is all set for a special event, with a Black Friday sale that promises exciting discounts. Meanwhile, All Good Books will be stocking up on popular titles to ensure everyone leaves with a little something special.

And while the giant chains brace for a bustling holiday shopping season, independent bookstores are also keen to make their mark. Many readers are delighted to support minority-owned businesses and hybrid stores that cater to local needs.

Books as Community Cornerstones

In the end, it’s all about building connections. As Rogers pointed out, people are craving community and bookstores provide a sanctuary of sorts. “In these times, we really need spaces where we can just be ourselves, connect with others, and dive into a good book,” she emphasized.

So, whether you’re picking up a chic new novel at Barnes & Noble or exploring the individual charm of local indie stores, this holiday season in Columbia promises to be an exciting adventure for all book lovers!