For everyone who loves books but also loves their budget – this one’s for you

If you’ve ever wished you could do more to support the book community – from your favorite authors and indie bookstores to your local library – you absolutely can. The good news? You don’t need to spend a lot of money (or any at all) to make a meaningful difference.

As someone who adores the literary world and believes in the power of small, everyday acts, I’ve rounded up nine ways you can support the book community year-round. Whether you’re a homebody reader, a casual book buyer, or a library regular, these ideas will help you give back while staying true to your reading life.

9 Easy Ways To Support The Literary Community

Buy Directly from Independent Bookstores (When You Can)

When you do purchase a book, skip the big online retailers and buy directly from an indie bookstore. Every sale helps them stay open, hire staff, and host the author events we all love.

If you don’t have a local indie nearby, you can order online through Bookshop.org or Libro.fm – both give a percentage of each sale back to independent bookstores. It’s one of the easiest ways to keep your money in the literary community.

Preorder Upcoming Releases

Preorders are like a love letter to authors – they tell publishers and bookstores that readers care before a book is even out. That’s why they’re so powerful.
When you preorder a book you’re excited about, you’re helping the author’s sales rankings, signaling demand, and often supporting an indie bookstore at the same time. It’s one small action with a big ripple effect.

Borrow from Your Local Library (and Request Titles!)

Every time you borrow a book from your library, it counts – libraries purchase books based on reader interest and requests. So when you request a book or put it on hold, you’re helping both the author and your local branch.

Libraries are also a haven for homebody readers – cozy corners, community events, and unlimited inspiration. Supporting your library is one of the most accessible ways to strengthen the book ecosystem.

Leave Reviews and Ratings

Leaving a review on Goodreads, The StoryGraph, or your favorite bookstore’s website costs nothing, but it means everything to authors.

A short review – even just a sentence about how a book made you feel – helps other readers discover it and encourages bookstores to stock more copies. So the next time you finish a book, take two minutes to share your thoughts. It truly makes a difference.

Attend Author Events or Watch Online Launches

Many bookstores and publishers now host free or low-cost virtual author events. You can tune in from your sofa with a cup of tea and feel part of the excitement while supporting both the author and the store.

If you prefer in-person events, check your local bookstore’s calendar – even just showing up and filling a seat helps boost the author’s visibility and the store’s community programming.

Start or Join a Book Club

Book clubs are a simple but powerful way to build community around reading. Whether it’s virtual, local, or just a group of friends swapping book recs, you’re creating a space that celebrates literature and connection.

Plus, discussing books often inspires others to buy, borrow, or share – turning your little club into a mini engine of support for authors and bookstores.

Share the Love Online

Social media is a modern-day word of mouth, and your voice matters. When you post about a book you loved, tag the author, bookstore, or publisher. Every comment, repost, or share boosts visibility – especially for debut and indie authors who rely on organic buzz.

Even if you can’t buy every new release, sharing your excitement online keeps the conversation (and the community) alive.

Support Bookish Companies That Give Back

Companies like Bookshop.org and Libro.fm are designed to keep the book world thriving. They offer affiliate programs that allow creators, authors, and bookstores to earn a portion of sales.

If you listen to audiobooks, try Libro.fm instead of subscription giants – you’ll get the same titles while supporting an independent bookstore of your choice.

Engage with Bookish Creators and Communities

If you follow book bloggers, BookTubers, or Bookstagrammers, your engagement matters more than you think. Liking, commenting, or sharing helps us reach more readers – and many of us, myself included, use affiliate programs that give back to the literary ecosystem.

It’s free, it’s fast, and it builds momentum for the kind of cozy, connected book community we all want to see thrive.

Final Thoughts

Supporting the book community isn’t just about buying books – it’s about showing up in small, consistent ways that make reading sustainable for everyone. Every preorder, library loan, post share, and review adds up to something powerful: a world where stories continue to be written, published, and cherished.