Independent Bookstore Websites During COVID-19

As COVID-19 continues to spread across Canada, independent bookstore owners are increasing their use of websites to run their businesses.  

The global pandemic has caused many small businesses in Windsor to close temporarily or even permanently. One in seven small businesses are in danger of closing due to COVID-19. However, Biblioasis Bookshop continues to share the love of reading through their website by providing customers the ability to enjoy what the store has to offer, such as books from local authors. It was not always easy for Biblioasis, however. 

“COVID-19 had quite the impact on small, local-run businesses throughout Canada,” said Scarlet Kennedy, assistant bookkeeper at Biblioasis. “Luckily for us, though, right before Canada went into lock down, we had already been considering a new form of sales, where people could order books online.”

Kennedy said the public health crisis is forcing change for the better in the case of Biblioasis, who are using the opportunity to improve and adapt to a changing world. The Internet allows people to order books whenever they want, and Kennedy finds this beneficial during the pandemic.  

“Was there a book that popped into their head at 2 a.m. that they didn’t want to forget? They’re able to order it from us right away,” said Kennedy. “People who are also unable to get out to the store, with or without the pandemic, are able to still get the books they want, and we can deliver it right to them.”

Despite the success of the website, it was not an easy start. With such short notice to adapt to the changing world, the road was not exactly smooth. The website has improved with time, however, as Biblioasis staff become more experienced with how to set things up and fix issues. 

“In the beginning there were some glitches and some procedures that didn’t quite work right, but obviously we’ve had a few months to work on it, so those things are always getting better,” said Kennedy. “We’re committed to constantly improving it to make it better for both our employees and the customers who buy from us.”

As big box stores are being closed along with the small businesses, Biblioasis is finding success as an alternative to brands like Indigo. The website, Biblioasis said, is aiding in that success.  

“There are a lot of people who did not know about us pre-pandemic and have since discovered the joys of independent booksellers, and the website really just helps facilitate that,” said Kennedy. “A lot of our customers praise us for having superior customer service, because we’re a smaller store and therefore are able to tailor the experience to each individual that comes in.”

Even when COVID-19 is contained, websites will not lose their value for Biblioasis staff, who continue to improve their website. 

“I think in the technological age we’re in, a website will always be one of the most valuable things a business can have,” said Kennedy. “At this point, it’s almost a necessity, and there’s no chance that e-commerce will stop being useful anytime soon, for businesses or for customers.”