Independent bookstores are running business as usual

Independent bookstore owners in Windsor Essex are pushing through difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic while trying to run their businesses as usual.

The pandemic uprooted many lives and businesses to accommodate social distancing and proper health protocols. Many independent businesses had to shut down during the coronavirus pandemic, but this has not stopped bookstore owners from offering their services.

Roger Wurdemann, owner of Juniper Books said the bookstore was closed for three months due to COVID-19.  However, closing the store allowed them time to renovate and update their facilities. They were able to reopen on July 2 with increased safety measures.

“We have glass dividers at desks,” said Wurdemann. “Masks are available for customers, cleaning happens regularly, especially touch spots; we keep the store as organized as possible and creating more space for customers to feel comfortable.”

He also said Juniper offered contactless pick-up and payment using their mailbox during the three months closed. They have also implemented contract tracing measures. Sales were slow March to May, but they have had robust sales since reopening the store. Wurdemann said he had not encountered any difficulties with the pandemic, but he is anxious about the possible contraction and spread of the virus to his family.

The River Bookshop, located in Amherstburg, opened during the pandemic rather than closing. The store had a soft grand opening on Aug. 14.

Similar to Juniper Books, the staff at the River Bookshop have introduced safety protocols.

“We all wear masks and require customers to wear them as well,” said Lori Wightman, the lead bookseller at River Bookshop. “We limit the amount of people in the store. Hand sanitizer dispensers are throughout the store. Sanitizing is something staff does regularly.”

Wightman also said despite opening mid-pandemic, sales have been good and they have a healthy number of customers each day.

“Our biggest difficulty is that we cannot have the events in the size and scope that we had hoped because of social distancing. Our speakers’ series are still successful but just on a little smaller and more virtual scale,” said Wightman.

Wurdemann hopes to focus more on the online sales and hopes to have book signings and readings post COVID at Juniper Books. As well, Wightman hopes to increase the size of their events, offer delivery options and get continued positivity from the Amherstburg community at the River Bookshop.