How Caspian Books in California Shows People 'We're All in This Together'

Independent bookstores are the heartbeat of their communities. They nurture culture and community, generate local jobs and sales tax revenue, promote literacy and education, champion and center diverse and emerging authors, connect readers to books in personal and authentic ways, and actively support the right to read and access to books in their communities.

Each week we profile an independent bookstore, share what makes each bookstore special, and get their expert and unique book recommendations.

This week we have Caspian books in Tracy, California!

What is the story of your store?

We are a small bookstore in central Northern California. We are women-owned, indigenous-owned, and LGBTQIA+ owned.

This location has been here for over 10 years, but when we purchased it in 2023 we rebranded with a huge emphasis on creating a community space and providing unique experiences.

What makes your independent bookstore unique?

Caspian Books in Tracy, California hosts silent book clubs, authors, and events with local nonprofits.

We are the only bookstore in town and we have worked very hard to create a community space through silent book clubs, hosting local authors, and organizing events with local nonprofits. We have been extremely honest with our community about our successes and our struggles, which has created an overwhelming sense of “we are all in this together.”

This has been my dream since I was 6 years old. It is truly the most amazing experience, even on the toughest days.

Why is shopping at local, independent bookstores important?

Shopping local helps our local economy. I also think bookstores are important in a way that can’t be replicated online (or even in other businesses) because reading is such a shared experience. Having a physical place run by someone passionate about books is essential to the experience!

What events, programs, or collaborations at your store are planned this quarter that you would like to share?

We have a Silent Book Club that meets twice a month! We also offer ‘Night at the Bookstore’ where we host groups after hours for date nights, book clubs or birthdays – we make it special with decorated centerpieces, candlelight, sparkling drinks and treats from a local bakery!

Check out these titles recommended by Caspian Books:

“Under the Whispering Door” by TJ Klune: “It’s such a cozy, comforting book, but it has such an existential message about life and what comes next.”
“Bad Cree” by Jessica Johns: “It’s an incredible book about loss and grief with a tangible representation, rooted in indigenous legend.”
“The City and Its Precarious Walls” by Haruki Murakami: “I love everything Haruki Murakami”

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How Caspian Books shows people that we are all in this together