The written word is on a hot streak, despite the naysayers who claim people don’t read anymore, who insist print media is dead, and who want us to believe AI is better at telling our stories than we are. As generations young and old begin to reject the digital realm for the analog world, the wholesome pleasure of diving into a good book is trending upward.
This is especially true in Texas, where a friendly small business economy has spawned an influx of independent bookstores. According to the American Booksellers Association, U.S. independent bookstores have increased 70% since 2020, from 1,916 to 3,218, and Texas remains a driver of this growth. In 2024, the ABA recorded 323 store openings, including 21 in Texas, and the positive trend continued in 2025. It’s not just about the books; it’s the community these spaces cultivate. Read more
