Today's Read Team 
Connecticut Book Trail: A Celebration of Independent Bookstores
Join fellow literature enthusiasts on April 26 for Independent Bookstore Day, a celebration designed to strengthen community ties within the book-loving population. The Connecticut Book Trail offers a perfect opportunity to engage with local bookstores while supporting the economy and honoring our First Amendment rights.
An Introduction to the Connecticut Book Trail
The concept of the Connecticut Book Trail stemmed from the passion of Meghan Hayden from Riverbend Books. Inspired by successful bookstore initiatives such as the Passport Challenge initiated by RJ Julia and similar trails in other states, she envisioned a year-round attraction akin to the state’s wine trail. “I wanted to see if we could do something fun and sustainable that would invite bookstore tourism,” said Hayden, highlighting her goal of creating an engaging, book-oriented experience.
Today, the Connecticut Book Trail features 23 independent bookstores, including new additions like Diane’s Bookstore in Greenwich and The Curious Cat in Winsted. The trail provides a unique chance for book lovers to traverse the scenic state, visiting shops from Old Greenwich to Mystic and beyond.
Participate in the Passport Challenge
A key component of the celebration is the Passport Challenge, which invites participants to explore as many bookstores as possible from April 26-27. By collecting stamps from visiting stores, participants have the chance to win more than $4,000 in prizes. Passports for this challenge can be downloaded online or picked up along the trail.
For those preferring a leisurely pace, the Slow & Steady Challenge runs until Labor Day, offering additional opportunities to explore all 23 bookstores for a chance to win a gift card bundle.
Exciting Activities Await on the Book Trail
This year’s Independent Bookstore Day promises numerous engaging activities across participating bookstores. Here are some highlights:
- Anniversary Celebrations at RJ Julia: Celebrate the 35th anniversary of RJ Julia, a cornerstone of Connecticut’s literary community. They will host a book drive in partnership with Reads to Grow and offer complimentary ice cream for book donors.
- Golden Ticket Promotion: Participants have the chance to find a golden ticket in a participating store, providing entry into a drawing for a year’s supply of audiobooks from Libro.FM.
- Special Editions at Montgomery & Taggert: The state’s first romance bookstore will feature exclusive editions, handprinted tote bags, and a unique flash tattoo event themed around Western romance.
- Children’s Activities: While parents shop, children can engage in crafts at Black Rock Books or go on a treasure hunt at The Curious Cat for a chance to win prizes.
- Local Treats: Riverbend Books will offer baked goods and artisanal beverages from local vendors.
- Blind Date with a Book: Visit Bank Square Books to take home a mystery book wrapped in brown paper, or try a free advanced reader copy at participating stores.
- Exclusive Swag and Prizes: Various merchandise, including stickers and mugs with literary themes, will be available. Additionally, unique opportunities for winning prizes through raffles and giveaways will enhance the experience.
Encouraging Book Love Beyond Connecticut
The Connecticut Book Trail exemplifies the growing movement of independent bookstore trails across the United States. Trails such as the Cape & Islands Bookstore Trail in Massachusetts and the North of Boston Book Trail inspire similar initiatives, inviting readers to connect with their local literary scenes.
For those not in Connecticut, consider advocating for a bookstore trail in your area—Independent Bookstore Day is a perfect occasion to spread the love for reading and local businesses.