Some 30 authors and other creative people have joined authors Amor Towles and Ann Patchett in launching the Book Industry Charitable (Binc) Foundation's end-of-year campaign, I Stand with Book and Comic Stores. The campaign starts tomorrow, November 19.
The group includes David Baldacci, Leigh Bardugo, Erica Bauermiester, Judy Blume, Chris Bohjalian, Sandra Boynton, Suzanne Collins, Michael Connelly, Kate DiCamillo, Anthony Doerr, Chris Finan, John Grisham, Lauren Groff, Jenny Hann, Taylor Jenkins Reid, Jeff Kinney, Wally Lamb, Min Jin Lee, Zibby Owens, Ann Patchett, James Patterson, Jodi Picoult, Dav Pilkey, Sherri Duskey Rinker, Rebecca Stead, Garth Stein, Tui Sutherland, Amor Towles, and Mo and Cher Willems.
Binc executive director Pam French said, "Stores need our support more now than ever. We're incredibly grateful to have these authors join us in support of the book and comic people who preserve the right to free speech, the open exchange of ideas, and the freedom to read. The work of independent bookstores matters more than ever. Binc is receiving 60% more calls for help from booksellers and comic retailers than before the pandemic. Please join your favorite author to ensure we can continue our commitment to never turn anyone in need away."
The campaign kicks off with a $15,000 matching gift from Penguin Random House. All gifts will be matched dollar for dollar, doubling the power and impact of donations received, up to a total of $15,000.
"As publishers with a mission to create books for everyone, we couldn't do what we do without our bookstore and comic book shop partners, who help us reach more readers everywhere with our books and stories," said Jaci Updike, chief revenue officer, Penguin Random House US. "We are honored to partner with Binc to support them during the holiday season and year-round."
In addition, Binc supporters will receive an audiobook of their choice from Libro.fm. A donation of $100 results in one audiobook credit; a donation of $500 or more gets three audiobook credits. This offer is available until December 31.
To donate to the I Stand with Book and Comic Stores campaign, click here.