Bookshop Day is tomorrow — here’s how to celebrate
Saturday 10 October is Bookshop Day, and bookshops across Aotearoa are ready to celebrate.
Now in its eleventh year, Bookshop Day is run by the Booksellers Association of New Zealand to encourage book lovers to shop locally and recognise the vital role bookshops play in our communities. It’s a day to highlight the cultural importance of books and bookshops, and celebrate the people that bring the two together — our amazing booksellers.
Booksellers are what make our book-buying experience so special. They are book experts, community champions, and matchmakers — the people who press the right book into your hands at exactly the right moment.
What’s on
With 40+ events happening across the country tomorrow, there has never been a better reason to get out and explore your local bookshops. From reading raves, treasure hunts, and teddy bear picnics to author talks, spot prizes, tattoo pop-ups, sales, and even an orchestral performance — there is something for everyone.
Make a day of it
Not sure where to start? Here’s your Bookshop Day Bingo checklist — see how many you can tick off:
☐ Treat yourself to a new book
☐ Pick up a book by an NZ author
☐ Pick up a genre you’ve never read before
☐ Ask a bookseller for a recommendation
☐ Discover a bookshop you’ve never been to before
☐ Hit two bookshops in one day
☐ Catch an author event
☐ Rally a friend and make a day of it
☐ Buy a limited edition Coco Solid Bookshop Day tote (read the story behind the art)
☐ Share your Bookshop Day on socials and tag @bookshopdaynz
Bookshop love doesn’t have to cost a thing
Can’t make it in store? Here are three free ways to show up for your local bookshop:
- Leave them a five star Google review
- Sign up to their email newsletter
- Spread the word — tell everyone you know
Small actions, big impact.
Follow along
We’ll be sharing highlights from bookshops across the motu throughout the day. Follow us on Instagram @bookshopdaynz and use #NZBookshopDay to share your own Bookshop Day adventures.