© 2025 New Hampshire Public Radio

Persons with disabilities who need assistance accessing NHPR's FCC public files, please contact us at publicfile@nhpr.org.
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Support essential local news and protect public media with a donation today!

Once Gathering Places, New Hampshire's Independent Book Stores Turn To Delivery

Courtesy of Water Street Bookstore

Some people find themselves right now with a lot of extra quiet time in the house. You could  stew. You could tweet. Or, how about you get some reading done? 

Click here to sign up for our newsletter to get the latest updates on coronavirus in New Hampshire delivered to your inbox.  

While most libraries are closed, many of the state’s independent book shops are still operating, providing either curbside pick-up or delivery for customers. While the shops used to provide a space to gather and browse, they are now functioning as makeshift warehouses, taking orders and packing books, toys and games.

We checked in with the owners of four independent bookshops to see how they see their role during the pandemic. 

Thanks to The Toadstool Bookshops in the Monadnock Region, Sheafe Street Books in Portsmouth, Water Street Bookstore in Exeter, and Main Street Bookends in Warner.

NHPR's reporters and producers are working around the clock to get you the latest updates on coronavirus in New Hampshire. Click here to make a donation to support our reporting.

As a general assignment reporter, I pursue breaking news as well as investigative pieces across a range of topics. I’m drawn to stories that are big and timely, as well as those that may appear small but tell us something larger about the state we live in. I also love a good tip, a good character, or a story that involves a boat ride.
Related Content

You make NHPR possible.

NHPR is nonprofit and independent. We rely on readers like you to support the local, national, and international coverage on this website. Your support makes this news available to everyone.

Give today. A monthly donation of $5 makes a real difference.