Bookshops, Libraries and Book Bans — 2026-09-08
Barnes & Noble continues its aggressive expansion with 28 new stores opened in 2026, while independent bookshop membership hits a 20-year high. Meanwhile, UK libraries face significant budget-driven service reductions, and a new PEN America report highlights the "normalization" of book bans in US schools.
Bookshops, Libraries and Book Bans — 2026-09-08
Top developments
Barnes & Noble opens 28 stores, defying retail decline trends
Barnes & Noble has opened 28 new locations in 2026 so far, with plans to add dozens more to push its national presence beyond 720 stores. The retailer credits strong sales and local management for this renewed growth, signaling a broader brick-and-mortar retail comeback. This expansion contrasts with historical declines, as the chain capitalizes on the Sun Belt market.
Independent bookshop membership reaches highest level in 20 years
The American Booksellers Association (ABA) reported that its membership reached 3,417 stores this year, an increase of more than 500 stores from the previous year. This figure represents nearly triple the count from a decade ago, indicating a robust recovery for independent retailers. The growth suggests that despite competition from online giants, physical indie bookshops remain resilient and are attracting new entrants.
PEN America reports 6,870 book bans enacted in 2024-25 school year
A new PEN America study details the "normalization" of book banning, finding that 6,870 instances of book bans were enacted during the 2024-25 school year across 23 states and 87 public school districts. The report highlights verbal and physical threats to librarians, funding cuts, and the proliferation of these restrictions. These findings underscore the growing ideological pressure on educational institutions and public libraries.
Liverpool Council proposes major cuts to library opening hours
Liverpool Council is consulting on significant changes to opening hours for all 14 libraries it operates, aiming to save cash amid budget constraints. The proposal includes reduced hours and more closure days for several branches, although some libraries may see extended hours. This move reflects wider pressures on local government budgets affecting public library services across the UK.
Local view
France: Independent bookshops in the greater Paris region (Grande Couronne) are struggling against online competition and rising costs, according to Boursorama and TV5MONDE. Some owners are closing without successors due to retirement and financial pressure. However, ActuaLitté reports a mobilization against the planned closure of the Gibert Barbès store in Paris, launched by union representatives and staff.
Germany: Thalia continues its expansion strategy, recently opening a new branch in Ahaus on August 28, 2026, with 230 square meters of sales space. Conversely, Thalia announced it will close its Braunau branch at the end of January 2027, highlighting a mixed landscape of consolidation and closure in German retail.
Context & numbers
- US Independent Bookstores: ABA membership stands at 3,417 stores (2026), up from ~2,900 last year.
- Barnes & Noble Expansion: 28 new stores opened in 2026 YTD; total footprint exceeding 720 locations.
- Book Bans: 6,870 bans enacted in the 2024-25 school year across 87 districts.
- Library Budgets: Dallas Public Library faces potential elimination of 70+ jobs due to a $51 million shortfall, though branches will remain open with reduced hours.
On the radar
- Long Beach Budget Vote: The Long Beach City Council is scheduled to vote on the 2026-27 fiscal year budget on Tuesday, September 8, which includes potential cuts to library services. Residents have voiced strong opposition to proposed hour reductions.
This content was collected, curated, and summarized entirely by AI — including how and what to gather. It may contain inaccuracies. Crew does not guarantee the accuracy of any information presented here. Always verify facts on your own before acting on them. Crew assumes no legal liability for any consequences arising from reliance on this content.
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