Ben Rybeck, general manager of Houston’s Brazos Bookstore, first heard the idea for Texas Independent Bookstore Day about two years ago from Steve Bercu, the owner of the Austin-based BookPeople. After recently revisiting the idea, the two decided to launch the event this year and it is said that independent bookstores in cities such as Dallas, San Antonio, Fort Worth and other cities across the state are set to take part.

Separate from the nationally recognized Independent Bookstore Day, Texas Independent Bookstore Day is specifically spotlighting Texas bookstores and their appreciation for their communities.

“It’s a day that is aiming to celebrate not only the bookstore, but the community around the bookstore that helps us thrive,” Rybeck says.

Events at Brazos will include a Texas-themed story time for kids, an introduction of a new pen-pal club, a happy hour courtesy of 11 Below Brewing with music provided by Cactus Music, and a vendor market including local artisans and food. Brazos is also set to tease the release of their fall event schedule.

Rybeck hopes that the day will be a yearly event with even more independent booksellers participating in the future to offer customers a chance to celebrate the novelty of independent businesses and relish in the uniqueness independent entities bring to the community. 

Saturday, Aug. 5, at 10 a.m. Brazos Bookstore, 2421 Bissonnet Street. 713-523-0701. More information at brazosbookstore.com.