In downtown Grand Marais, Drury Lane Books has been a community fixture for more than two decades. This month, the shop is preparing to celebrate Independent Bookstore Day on Saturday, April 26.

Celebrated nationwide, Independent Bookstore Day is an opportunity to recognize the role of local bookstores. At Drury Lane, it’s also a reason to gather. “It’s a fun excuse to throw a party,” says Gwen Danfelt, the store’s manager for the past nine years. This year’s celebration will include advanced reader copies of upcoming books, cookies from Crosby Bakery, giveaway items, and a visit from young Ojibwe author Kiki Garcia. (Garcia will additionally be presenting an author talk at the Grand Marais Public Library earlier in the day.)

Garcia, a nine-year-old author from the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, will be signing copies of her debut picture book, Fishing by Torchlight, during the event. The book, based on her real-life experiences, tells the story of kids exercising their treaty rights through traditional spearfishing. Blending cultural storytelling, Ojibwemowin language, and vibrant illustrations, Kiki’s visit reflects the kind of diverse, community-rooted storytelling Drury Lane supports.

Drury Lane’s deep ties to the Grand Marais community are part of what set it apart. The store partners regularly with the local library, schools, and nonprofits for events, book clubs, and large book orders. Its monthly full moon poetry readings—held around a bonfire—draw a mix of locals and visitors throughout the year.

Author events are another major draw, especially in summer and fall. Past guests have included popular regional authors like William Kent Krueger, Peter Geye, and Sarah Stonich. “We try to feature a wide range—fiction, nonfiction, well-known names, and voices people may not know yet,” Gwen said, reflecting the store’s commitment to offering diverse perspectives on its shelves and at events.

While the shop stocks a strong selection of Minnesota books and local interest titles, Drury Lane also keeps up with national releases and staff favorites. Book selections are handpicked by Gwen and her team, all avid readers who bring a variety of tastes. “We all read a lot, and we all have different interests,” she says. “That helps us offer something for everyone.”

And that personal touch is something you won’t find online. Local bookstores offer something harder to replicate—personal recommendations, a curated selection, and real human connection. Gwen sees the bookstore as a valuable space where people can share a love of books face-to-face. “Reading is a solitary hobby, but this is a way to interact,” she said.

Despite their enduring appeal, independent bookstores face serious challenges—tight profit margins, rising operational costs, and ongoing competition from online retailers. Major players like Amazon dominate the market with steep discounts and fast delivery, creating pressure on small stores that can’t match the same convenience.

Still, bookstores like Drury Lane continue to thrive. In 2023, more than 200 new independent bookstores opened in the U.S., bringing the total to over 2,400 locations—an 11% increase over the previous year, according to the American Booksellers Association. More than half of indie bookstores surveyed reported higher sales in 2024 than the year before, signaling that readers are increasingly seeking out the experience and expertise that local stores provide.

Looking ahead, Gwen says the future of Drury Lane Books feels strong, and they remain focused on keeping the selection fresh and hosting engaging events. “We’ve got a good thing going,” Gwen said, referring to the store’s dedicated team, beloved space, thriving business, and steady connection to the Grand Marais community.

Independent Bookstore Day at Drury Lane Books offers a chance to experience everything that makes local bookstores special.

Independent Bookstore Day at Drury Lane Books
When: Saturday, April 27
Where: Drury Lane Books, 12 E Wisconsin St, Grand Marais, MN
Highlights: Cookies from Crosby Bakery (including gluten-free options!), advance reader copies of books, giveaways, and a book signing with nine-year-old Ojibwe author Kiki Garcia at 12:30 p.m.