Today's Read Team 
Get ready to embark on an exciting literary adventure as we explore the Connecticut Book Trail. This year, make plans to join fellow bibliophiles for Independent Bookstore Day on April 26th, where readers can engage with local independent bookstores while celebrating community spirit and local economies.
Discover the Connecticut Book Trail
Initiated by Meghan Hayden of Riverbend Books, the Connecticut Book Trail aims to create a lasting attraction akin to the state’s renowned wine trail. Inspired by similar initiatives in Massachusetts and New York, Hayden envisaged a year-round treasure hunt for readers, drawing on successful concepts like the Passport Challenge initiated by RJ Julia in 2019.
The trail now features 23 participating bookstores, with exciting newcomers including Diane’s Bookstore in Greenwich, the Telegraph Autonomous Zone in New London, Montgomery & Taggert in Chester, and The Curious Cat in Winsted. For avid readers seeking a challenge, the 2025 Passport Challenge encourages you to cover the trail from Old Greenwich to Mystic and beyond.
Passport to Rewards
Participating in the Book Trail during Independent Bookstore Day brings the opportunity to join the Passport Challenge. From April 26th to 27th, visit as many bookstores as you can to enter a drawing for over $4,000 in prizes. Passports can be printed from the CT Book Trail website or collected in-store.
For those preferring a leisurely pace, the Slow & Steady Challenge extends the exploration timeframe until Labor Day, offering a chance to win a gift card bundle for each bookstore visited.
Highlights of the Trail
Indie Bookstore Day offers a wealth of activities and unique experiences along the Connecticut Book Trail:
- Celebrate with RJ Julia: Mark the 35th anniversary of this celebrated independent bookstore with various community events. Engage in a book drive for early childhood literacy with Reads to Grow, enjoy special café offerings, and win book-themed merchandise.
- Audiobook Giveaway: Seek out the hidden golden ticket in participating stores for a chance to win free audiobooks for a year from Libro.FM, promoting indie bookstores.
- Romantic Reads at Montgomery & Taggert: This romance-focused bookstore, Chester’s pride, will showcase limited edition books and special tote bags while offering a unique tattoo pop-up for literary lovers.
- Creative Kids’ Activities: While parents browse, children can enjoy crafts at Black Rock Books or embark on a toy-caching adventure at The Curious Cat in Winsted.
- Tasty Treats: Stop by Riverbend Books for delicious snacks prepared by local vendors, including freshly baked goods and artisan soda.
- Blind Dates with Books: Select free mystery novels wrapped in plain paper at Bank Square Books or obtain advanced copies of upcoming releases at participating bookstores.
- Unique Merchandise: Discover interesting items like stickers, mugs, and tote bags at various bookstores, including exclusive offerings available only during Indie Bookstore Day.
- Exciting Giveaways: Explore various businesses for chances to win prizes through raffles, games, and unique activities tailored to each location.
- Fall in Love with Local Bookstores: Explore a range of store atmospheres on the trail, from cozy corners full of second-hand books to eclectic shops combining literature and music.
Spread the Love of Reading
If you can’t participate in Connecticut’s Book Trail, consider checking out similar initiatives in other states, such as the Montana Book Trail and the Mass Book Trail. Independent Bookstore Day offers the perfect occasion to support local literary spaces, wherever you may be.