Over 40 booksellers attended SIBA's first Indie Press Social at Little Shop of Stories in Atlanta on September 12th. They heard from representatives of Beacon Press, Europa Editions, New Press, Other Press, and Verso, and had a chance to talk to both the reps and their bookseller colleagues about their businesses and their perspective on the book industry. Booksellers and presenters then went to a local restaurant for dinner. The reps also took the time to visit a number of Atlanta-area bookstores.

Feedback has been enthusiastic:

"Much gratitude to all! An incredible opportunity for small indies and small publishers to share struggles and triumphs. Always invigorating to reconnect with fellow store owners". -Annell Garcia Gerson, Bookmiser

"Thank you for putting on this most helpful meeting of booksellers and the editors from indie presses."-Doug Robinson, Eagle Eye

"What an incredible experience! All the booksellers that attended were so generous with their time and energy. I had so many fantastic conversations. The bookstore tour really showed how Decatur has a vibrant and diverse bookselling community. I look forward to the next one." --Steven Tran | Sales & Rights Manager, Soho Press

SIBA plans to bring the Indie Press Social model to other areas of SIBA's territory in the future. Bookstores interesting in hosting future Indie Press Socials should contact Linda-Marie at lindamarie@sibaweb.com