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Local, independent bookstores have never been more important. With fair access to literature under political attack, bookstores are a bulwark against censorship and an asset to the communities they serve.

Of course, they do so much more than sell books. Independent bookstores are a community connector, hosting events, clubs and social events that keep citizens engaged and informed. A local bookstore is a great place to make friends.

Each week we'll be profiling an independent bookstore, discovering what makes each one special and getting expert book recommendations from booksellers plugged into the pulse of their local readership. Up this week is Wild Geese Bookshop in Fort Collins, Colorado.

What makes your independent bookstore special?

Named for Mary Oliver's poem of the same name, Wild Geese opened Nov. 4, 2016, the week of a contentious Presidential election, and quickly became a much-needed space where people (who probably would not be friends on the internet) found connection and surprising friendships. We host unique events including wine tastings, book clubs, author events, cooking demonstrations and themed parties to help bring people together.

Check out: USA TODAY's weekly Best-selling Booklist

We try to be a hug in shop form. We've shipped care packages called Sunshine Boxes daily since opening. This became particularly helpful during the pandemic as families celebrated holidays and milestones while apart.

What's a book you can't keep on the shelves?

"The Wishing Game" by Meg Shaffer is resonating with book lovers because it calls on readers to remember the books they read as a child that they continue to carry with them.

A reclusive bestselling children’s author holds a contest to give away the one and only copy of his new book. Kindergarten teacher’s aide Lucy Hart, for whom the author’s books were a balm as a neglected child, competes to win the coveted prize.

"The Wishing Game" at Bookshop for $26

What's a book you think deserves more hype?

"The Baby on the Fire Escape: Creativity, Motherhood, and the Mind-Baby Problem," by Julie Phillips. This book breaks down the paradoxes of the creative life and parenthood and what it looks like to be both a mother and a great artist. It reads like getting non-judgmental advice from a wise aunt.

"The Baby on the Fire Escape: Creativity, Motherhood, and the Mind-Baby Problem" at Bookshop $26

What books are you most excited about coming out in the next few months?

"Let Us Descend," by two-time National Book Award-winner Jesmyn Ward (out Oct. 24). Her new novel is a reimagining of American slavery told by Annis, a girl sold by her white slaver father.

"The Book of (More) Delights," by Ross Gay (out Sept. 19). So much of being a bookseller is finding the right book to put into someone's hand who is going through something difficult. Gay's work never sugar coats the difficulties or fragility of life, but it is still so hopeful. 

"The Comfort of Crows: A Backyard Year," by Margaret Renkl; art by Billy Renkl (out Oct. 24). The author of "Late Migrations" follows the creatures and plants of her backyard over the course of a year in 52 chapters. This book is a balm. 

  • "Let Us Descend" at Bookshop for $26
  • "The Book of (More) Delights at Bookshop for $26
  • "The Comfort of Crows: A Backyard Year" at Bookshop for $30

Why do you think customers should shop local?

When you shop local, you are setting the economic flywheel in motion in your community and giving your town momentum to become something unique. There's the contribution to local taxes, but also there's investments that we make in the community as well. We partner with other local businesses and venues to co-create merchandise and host events. This felt so tangible during the pandemic. When we had good sales, we could order more shirts, candles and bookmarks from several different local vendors . When we succeed, other businesses benefit. The carbon footprint is also less when we can go down the street to get our locally grown soy candle restock. It makes a difference.

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