At the Children’s Literacy Foundation (CLiF), we are huge fans of the many independent bookstores we partner with across Vermont and New Hampshire. Their support, and that of their patrons, is invaluable in helping us get beautiful, high-quality books into the hands of the children we serve.

We want to offer special recognition to our bookstore friends who have committed to hosting book drives for CLiF over the holiday season. Each of these stores is a community mainstay, and we are very grateful for our shared commitment to inspiring young readers. Every book donated to a drive at any of the stores listed below will be distributed to a child in need. Just one more reason to shop small, local and literary this season–and every season!

If you are an individual or business interested in hosting a book drive for CLiF, please click here, or contact CLiF Project Specialist Mary Edith Leichliter for more information.

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Bartleby’s Books, Wilmington, VT

Located in the heart of downtown Wilmington, Bartleby’s has been the area’s independent bookseller since 1989. Popular with locals and visitors alike, the store offers a wide range of titles across most genres, as well as a carefully chosen selection of cards, gifts and games, and artwork by local artists. 

Bear Pond Books, Montpelier, VT

A mainstay of downtown Montpelier’s shopping district since 1973, Bear Pond Books is a destination for readers of all ages. The store offers a wide selection of both new and used books, expertly curated by the dedicated staff. An inviting children’s room on the second floor houses both an impressive assortment of books for young readers, and a resident Russian tortoise named Veruca. (You can follow Veruca on Instagram.)

Bear Pond Books, Stowe, VT

Located in Stowe’s historic Depot Building, Bear Pond Books is the second largest independent bookstore in the state. The store carries a wide-ranging selection of fiction, non-fiction, children’s literature and New England authors. Stop in during the week to catch shop dog Tucker working the register!

The Bookstore, Brandon, VT

When Brandon’s last remaining bookstore was slated to close in 2019, a group of like-minded individuals with a shared passion for books and community came together to make a plan. The result was The Bookstore, a community-supported, independent bookseller that offers “as diverse and whimsical a selection of titles and miscellany” as can fit in the 1000-square-foot space it occupies in the historic Briggs Carriage House. 

Bridgeside Books, Waterbury, VT

Serving as Waterbury’s independent bookstore since 2009, Bridgeside is in the business of keeping brains engaged. With over 3,000 books in stock, as well as art supplies, puzzles, games and other unique treasures, there’s no excuse for boredom within these store walls!

The Eloquent Page, Saint Albans, VT

This traditional brick-and-mortar bookstore in downtown Saint Albans houses 35,000 books across all genres, both new and used. The store hosts regular events featuring local authors. 

Everyone’s Books, Brattleboro, VT

Located in downtown Brattleboro, Everyone’s Books is an independent bookstore specializing in books about diversity, social change and environmental issues. 

Gibson’s Bookstore, Concord, NH

Founded in 1898, Gibson’s is the oldest continuously operating retailer in the Concord area, and the largest independent bookstore in northern New England. The store stocks a generous inventory of books across all genres, as well as a curated selection of used books. Gibson’s also sells an assortment of toys, socks, art supplies and tote bags, and has an in-store cafe where hungry browsers can satisfy their cravings.

Inklings Children’s Books, Waitsfield, VT

Inklings Children’s Books opened its doors in the Mad River Valley in 2023, and hosts storytimes, author events, and rotating craft activities for young patrons. The store is dedicated to providing a space where kids and adults can come for a diverse collection of books.

Little Village Toy & Bookshop, Littleton, NH

Little Village Toy & Bookshop offers a wide selection of books, toys and games for kids and adults alike. The store prides itself in sourcing unique items, with a focus on quality and value.

MainStreet BookEnds, Warner, NH

This family-owned independent bookstore provides a space mindfully designed to meet the reading needs of its community. An attached barn known as The Gallery features the work of local artists, and is also home to yoga classes, book group meetings, community gatherings and lectures, concerts, and author events. 

Morgan Hill Bookstore, New London, NH

Morgan Hill Bookstore boasts almost 2,000 square feet of book-selling space to explore. A cozy “Children’s Barn” within the store offers books for young readers, as well as puzzles and activities. 

Next Chapter Bookstore, Barre, VT

In addition to an extensive book collection with something for every reader, Next Chapter Bookstore boasts an interior tree house, and an adorable shop dog named Gracie. The store also carries a curated selection of gifts for all interests, including journals, bookmarks, greeting cards, candles, and more. 

Norwich Bookstore, Norwich, VT

Serving readers in the Upper Valley of Vermont and New Hampshire since 1994, the Norwich Bookstore has something for fans of all genres. The children’s section is bright and well-stocked; perfectly designed to capture the interest of young readers. Norwich Bookstore maintains an active calendar of events, including community programming and author talks.

Phoenix Books, Burlington, Essex and Rutland, VT

Community-minded and passionate about the power of shopping locally, the Phoenix stores offer books for all interests and budgets, and take pride in serving as gathering spaces for their customers. Phoenix also operates its own publishing imprint, Onion River Press, with the intent of giving local authors a self-publishing alternative to Amazon.

Still North Books and Bar, Hanover, NH

A combo bookstore-bar-cafe, Still North serves up a curated book collection alongside craft beers, wine, light bites and coffee. Shoppers will find a generous selection of everything from kids’ books and new releases, to books by Dartmouth faculty and local authors. 

Toadstool Bookshop, Keene and Peterborough, NH

Toadstool Bookshop’s original location, in Peterborough, opened in 1972, followed by the Keene location in 1983. As “a bookstore for bookstore lovers,” each location carries 70,000 titles, with a focus on being reflective of the communities they serve. 

The Yankee Bookshop, Woodstock, VT

Vermont’s oldest continuously operating bookstore has been serving the literary needs of Woodstock and surrounding towns since 1935. Visitors will find a wide selection of general interest books, as well a unique assortment of vinyl, stationery, bookish gifts, puzzles, and more. 

(Reminder: many participating bookstores offer generous discounts on books purchased for the drive; please be sure to ask at the register!)