Around The Web: Indie Bookstores, Books Accessibility, and Comfort Activities.

Welcome back, readers! We’ve finally made it through March and that feels like an accomplishment right now, so take some time to celebrate the new month. I for one, am writing from my home office where the sun is shining through the window and a book awaits my attention.

Though a lot is changing, I’m still sharing content from across the web. This week, a way to support indie bookstores with your audiobook purchases, a look at how COVID-19 is challenging accessibility in Canadian literature, some poetry prompts, and some things to do if you can’t read right now.

Libro In Canada

Independent bookstores across the country have had to close their doors, but audiobooks may offer a chance for stores to continue earning, according to the Globe & Mail. Libro.fm, an audiobook seller and subscription program that functions like Audible, is now available in Canada. Though it has a smaller catalogue than other distributors, Libro partners with bookstores to share profits. So if you’re running out of physical books, this might be a good alternative.

Accessibility During Pandemic

There has been an overwhelming response from authors and publishers to make literature available to those who want to enjoy stories during this time. And while online festivals and readings are welcome, author Adam Pottle writes that deaf, disabled, and chronically ill folks have been fighting for this kind of accessibility long before COVID-19 came along. Pottle’s recent piece in Quill & Quire is worth reading as a reminder that we shouldn’t forget that accessibility is possible regardless of viruses and physical distancing.

Poetry Prompts

April is National Poetry Month and there are some fun things going on (online) to celebrate. One that’s worth checking out, especially if you’re looking to try your hand at writing some poems this month, is Coven Edition’s poetry prompts. Everyday, Coven is sharing a photo to inspire your writing.

What To Do If You Can’t Read

If you’re finding yourself stressed and unable to focus on reading right now, know that that’s okay. (You don’t need to be productive right now!) But if you are feeling bad about not reading, Book Riot has a post for you.

That’s it for this week, folks. Feel free to share any bookish content you’ve come across. Until next time, stay well, stay home, and wash your hands!