A Note About the Holidays
Dear Country Bookshelf Readers,
Thank you for your continued support through this chaotic year. 2020 has been unprecedented in many ways, including this note about the holidays -- which may seem out of season but stick with us. In short, we are highly encouraging folks to shop early for holiday gifts.
We’ve never been one to rush the holiday season, but 3 primary factors this year have coalesced to make this necessary.
Shipping issues
COVID safety and capacity issues
When the country shut down back in March, many spring book releases were postponed or canceled because manufacturers, warehouses, and shipping companies had to abide by local lockdown mandates and social distancing guidelines. Those postponed releases are all happening now -- along with those already scheduled for this fall. This has led to paper shortages and backlogs at the two (yes, only two) book printers in the US.
We expect this year’s hottest titles to sell out FAST. If the publishers run out and can’t reprint, we may not be able to restock. So, if you see something you like, don’t wait, as it might not be available later. This also goes for our nonbook merchandise like puzzles, cards, calendars, and other gift items. Most of those we will not be able to reorder again before the holidays.
Shipping is taking longer than usual -- to us from our suppliers and to you. All the major shipping companies are working extra hard while having an extra heavy load, and this will likely only get worse as the season progresses.
Country Bookshelf may be large, but we still must limit our capacity for everyone’s safety. Our first priority is people: customers and staff. Shopping early avoids crowds and gives everyone time to select special holiday gifts. We don’t want you to suffer waiting outside in wintry Montana weather.
So what should you do?
SHOP EARLY: Usually a last-minuter but have specific titles in mind? Shop in October and November for the best selection or to allow time for us to get in your special requests.
PREORDER: If you already know you want new books such as The Promised Land by Barack Obama, Diary of a Wimpy Kid 15: The Deep End by Jeff Kinney, or The Best of Me by David Sedaris, preordering now will guarantee your copy. This also helps us know how many to order and keeps you from being disappointed.
SHOP ONLINE: The safest way to shop is at countrybookshelf.com. Not quite sure what you’re looking for? Call or email and our booksellers will personally shop for you. And yes, we still gift wrap for free. Just leave a note in the comments section. We offer easy in-store pick up, local delivery, and nationwide shipping.
SHIP EARLY: To guarantee delivery in time, we recommend shipping gifts no later than October 25 for Hanukkah and November 15 for Christmas and Kwanzaa.
We are working our hardest to make this a safe, fun, memorable holiday season for everyone. We hope to see you downtown soon!
Be safe and be well,
Country Bookshelf Staff
