Plaid Elephant Books in Danville will join hundreds of local bookstores nationwide in celebrating Independent Bookstore Day on Saturday, April 30.

Independent Bookstore Day was established in 2013 to promote, celebrate, and highlight the value of the Independent bookstore community. The day has been observed on the last Saturday of April every year since 2013. This year there are 872 stores participating across the country.

Owner Kate Snyder says independent bookstores fill a special niche in the small business ecosystem because they are more than a retail destination. “Bookstores aren’t just about the product you are buying,” she explains. “A good bookstore is an adventure waiting to happen.” Many independent bookstores – including Plaid Elephant Books – host community events and are active participants in broader community development initiatives.

In recent months, Snyder has hosted yoga workshops, musical story times, art classes, and author events at her store on N. 3rd Street. She says, “Independent bookstores offer an experience that simply cannot be matched by large online retailers.”

Snyder is also a member of the Promotions Committee of the Heart of Danville Main Street program and is one of the driving forces behind the new Third Thursdays event downtown. “I firmly believe in the adage that a rising tide lifts all boats,” she explains. “When all of our downtown businesses are thriving and growing, that is good for the entire community.”

Plaid Elephant Books is celebrating Independent Bookstore Day with giveaways and exclusive items available for purchase. All customers will have the chance to spin “Penelope’s Prize Wheel” to win free books, bookmarks, stickers, and other prizes. Anyone who spends $50 will receive a free Independent Bookstore canvas tote bag.

Plaid Elephant Books is located at 116 N. 3rd Street in Danville. They are open Tuesday through Friday, 10am to 6pm and Saturdays 9am to 4pm.