101 Bookstore Content Ideas (That Go Beyond New Arrivals)
- Paiton Jean
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Whether you’re a local shop with charm for days or an online seller with heart, marketing your bookstore isn’t just about promoting books—it’s about creating a vibe people want to be part of. Here's a list of 101 bookstore content ideas perfect for local shops, cozy corners, or online sellers. These can be mixed and matched across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, blogs, and newsletters:
Book Focused Content
Staff picks
New arrivals
Weekly bestseller list
Book of the month
Reader reviews
Genre spotlight (mystery, fantasy, romance, etc.)
Local author features
Book vs. movie debate
Blind date with a book
Underrated book gems
Most anticipated releases
Re-readable favorites
Book recommendations based on vibes
First lines of famous books
If you liked ___, you’ll love ___
Top picks for each age group
Favorite book series
Staff’s childhood favorites
Favorite audiobooks
Most beautiful book covers
Product-Related Content
Book-themed gifts in store
Stationery & bookmark highlights
Seasonal bundles (Fall Reads, Cozy Kit)
Bookstore tote bags
Limited edition items
Candles & book pairings
Bookmark & book duos
Journals & planners
Sticker packs for readers
Local merch or branded items
Visual & Lifestyle Ideas
Shelf styling tips
Matching book & beverages
Cozy reading nook inspiration
What's in your book bag?
Bookmark aesthetic
Bookstore outfit of the day
Your morning routine with a book
Dreamy window seat + book shots
Seasonal shelf switchovers
Behind-the-scenes restocking photos
Educational & Value Content
How to start a book club
How to annotate books
The benefits of reading
Tips to get out of a reading slump
How to build a home library
Reading apps or tools you love
Tips for reading more books
Book formats explained: hardcover, paperback, etc.
Library vs. bookstore pros and cons
Tips for gifting books
Engagement & Conversation Starters
"This or That" book edition
Paperback vs. hardcover poll
What’s your reading goal this year?
Best plot twist you’ve read?
Longest book you've ever finished?
Do you annotate or leave books clean?
Hot take: audiobooks count as reading?
Favorite book to cry over
Book character you’d love to be friends with
The first book that made you fall in love with reading
Bookstore Seasonal & Holiday Content Ideas
Cozy fall reads
Spooky reads for October
Holiday gift guide
Back-to-school must-reads
Summer beach reads
Valentine's Day love stories
Winter reads & cocoa
National Book Lovers' Day
Read Across America Day
End-of-year reading wrap-up
Online & Digital Content
Virtual book tour recaps
Bookish Zoom backgrounds
Reels: Books I’d save in a fire
TikTok: Dramatic book reactions
Carousel: Podcast recommendations for readers
Mini blog posts on book themes
Email spotlight: 3 books you’d reread
Carousel: Book tropes you love or hate
Quote graphics
Carousel: Top 5 reading apps you love
Behind the Scenes & Personal Content
Meet the owner
Staff Q&A
A day in the life at the shop
Your reading routine
Favorite part about running a bookstore
Packing online orders
Decorating the shop
The story of how your store started
Your bookstore playlist
Favorite customer memory
Events, Promotions, & Community
Announce events (book signings, club meetings)
Book trivia night
Reading challenge
Local business shoutouts
Collaborate with a coffee shop
Customer Appreciation Day
Instagram giveaway
BOGO deals or seasonal sales
Loyalty or stamp card program
Used book drive
Leave a book, take a book bin
Extras Just for Fun
What’s your reader aesthetic? (Quiz or graphic)
Your store’s “dream bookshelf”
Book characters as drinks
Compare your staff to book characters (fun Reel)
Remember: Your customers aren’t just buying books; they’re buying an experience. Make your content feel like an invitation to come in, slow down, and stay awhile.
