The Hold the Keys to Literacy by James Patterson

They Hold the Keys to Literacy

by James Patterson

Booksellers and librarians are the foundation of our literary community. They do all they can to keep storytelling alive for readers. Their work is critical for building a more literate America. Being able to discover stories is something I’ve always loved. What makes this possible for so many comes down to all the librarians and booksellers who love a good story as much as I do, and who work so hard to get books into the hands of readers.

As a writer and publisher, I’m grateful for the work I get to do: telling stories. I’ve always said that I don’t consider writing a job—it’s play. I’m lucky to be able to play every day for a living. And, there’s a tremendous group of folks that help get my books into the hands of readers everywhere: booksellers and librarians.

If you’re a bookseller or librarian reading this, I want to say thank you. Thank you for spreading your enthusiasm and love for reading and for tirelessly working to create new readers.

And that’s why I’m grateful to be able to honor and support the important work they do with my Holiday Bookseller Bonus Program for independent bookstore employees.

Anyone can nominate a bookseller for a holiday bonus and my grant application asks just one question: “Why does this bookseller deserve a holiday bonus?”

Whenever I’m traveling, I love to stop in to the bookstores and libraries in the area. I especially enjoy visiting the local independent bookstore. I’m a big fan of them and their employees. These hardworking booksellers reach readers on a personal level as fixtures in their local communities.

The work these booksellers do includes everything from setting up displays to organizing author events, to handselling books, to connecting with every customer who walks through their doors. They come up with innovative new programming to get folks more excited about reading. They dedicate evening hours to keeping the store in top condition. They spend time outside the store, curating book recommendations for customers. I’m humbled to offer these bonuses as an acknowledgement of the work these people do.

This is the fourth year I’ve done these bookseller bonuses. I love hearing about the passion that the grant recipients have for their work, and the appreciation that the store customers have for the work booksellers do. I personally select all the winners and get the special experience of hearing firsthand what’s happening in independent bookstores across the United States. Booksellers are on the front lines of improving literacy and I hope that these grants help that work continue.

Reading the thank you notes from booksellers I’ve received over the last few years, I’m humbled to hear what a difference these bonuses can make in their lives. Booksellers can use the grants however they choose—some have bought holiday gifts for their children, paid medical bills, made an overdue trip to the dentist, or contributed to the improvement of their bookstores. I’m happy to be able to lighten their load during this crazy time of year and reward them for the essential work they do.

At this time of year, we can all do a few things to show that we’re grateful for our local bookstores. Head to your local bookstore and thank the folks whose creativity and enthusiasm for reading make such a big difference. And, don’t forget to buy a book while you’re there! I’m thankful for so much this year, for my wonderful family, and the privilege to do what I get to do each day. Most of all, to write for all the readers anxiously awaiting their next adventure. Happy Holidays!