Untitled Books

Does the demise of Borders signal a new Golden Age of Indie Bookselling?

In short. No. All last week the bookselling and publishing industry was awash with rumours of the imminent demise of Borders. Friends and customers alike believe it signals a resurgence of book buyers flocking to buy their books from Indies. Sadly, I can't report a stampede of newly converted people stripping my shelves bare of Bolano or Marias! Nor am I jumping for joy or rubbing my hands in gleeful anticipation of such an occurrence.

I want a healthy, vibrant book buying culture and that should include the Chains. Nobody wants a bland homogeneous high street (and arguably that's what most high streets have become) but think how much more sterile it will be to have just W H Smiths and Waterstone's as the de facto high street booksellers.

Bigger is not necessarily better. Certainly not when it comes to bookselling. Personally I like small, intimate shops. However, I'm sure lots of people like the anonymity that a superstore provides. But a diverse book buying culture is important so people have the choice. I've always been uncomfortable with the equation, Chain bookshops. Bad. Independents. Good. What makes a good bookshop, irrespective of size, is passionate, informed booksellers, an inviting atmosphere and stock that reflects the interests of booksellers and customers alike. Rabid discounting, indifferent customer service and bland stock selection is sadly too prevalent amongst the Chains and that's not good for anybody. It will just drive people to Amazon, goddammit!

Don't get me wrong. I'm neither an apologist for Borders or any other Chain, nor am I Mother Teresa's love child! Like everyone else, I've bills to pay and want to be able to enjoy this fab city as much as I can and that means making a profit. Hopefully! I just don't think the demise of Borders will mean myself or Indies in general will suddenly be in clover. I feel we would all benefit, publishers, authors, booksellers and buyers, if there is a healthy book buying culture.

Right, rant over and thankfully Christmas is upon us. I'm not quite so thankful for the cold, wet weather that comes with it. It does however allow me to sign off with this sartorial tidbit. Braving the cold, driving rain both Tash Aw and Adam Thirlwell popped in last week. Resplendent in winter top coats and chunky knit scarves, both cut quite a sartorial dash!

Less ranting next week. Promise!