Independent bookstores are the heartbeat of their communities. Provides culture and community, generates local employment and sales tax revenue, promotes literacy and education, champions and centers diversity and new authors, connects readers to books in a personal and authentic way, and right to read and access to books in their communities.

We profile one person every week independent bookstorewe share what makes each one special and get expert and unique book recommendations.

This week we have Madison Duckworth Salt Water Bookstore In Kingston, Washington!

What is the story of your store?

We are a women-owned indie magazine launching on Indie Bookstore Day in 2023! My co-owner, Lacey Anders, and I worked in independent bookstores for over a decade until we finally opened our own bookstores. Lacey also owns the bakery next door so we have a walkway between the two spaces! Visitors can enjoy coffee and baked goods while perusing the shelves.

What makes your independent bookstore unique?

We are located on the ancestral lands of the Suquamish Tribe and near the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe, so having a large Indigenous Peoples section is vital to us.

We also strive to give back to our community and work with our local schools by hosting in-store book fairs where a portion of sales go back to the school.

What is your favorite section in your store?

“Staff Favorites” section! I love when customers peruse this section and we can talk about our mutual favorites.

What are some of your store’s events, programs or partnerships happening this quarter that you’d like to share?

Monthly “Have You Heard of…?” Book Club is where you bring everything you’ve read and tell the group what you love and/or hate.

We also have a monthly “Queer Your Shelf” Book Club where we read books by Queer authors! This club is open to members and allies of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Why is it important to shop at local, independent bookstores?

Independent Bookstores are vital to a healthy and thriving community. It is a gathering space, a safe space for ideas to flow and for people to feel seen and heard!

Check out these books recommended by Saltwater Bookshop:

• “James” by Percival Everett

• “The Language of Flowers” by Vanessa Diffenbaugh

• “Funny Story” by Emily Henry

This article first appeared on USA TODAY: Inside Washington’s favorite Saltwater Bookstore