California Booksellers Connect at Fall Fest for Networking and Awards

Networking and Learning at CALIBA's Fall Fest

On September 14–15, 2026, San Diego served as the vibrant backdrop for the California Independent Booksellers Alliance's annual gathering, Fall Fest, which attracted hundreds of booksellers, publishers, and industry professionals. This event was significantly more than just a gathering— it was a platform for collaboration, skill enhancement, and relationship building that is critical in today's competitive book market. By inviting booksellers and publishers from various backgrounds and regions, CALIBA crafted an environment ripe for exchanging ideas and strategies that could make or break small businesses in the book industry. With the indie bookselling sector facing ongoing challenges from digital competition and shifting consumer habits, the emphasis on community connection was both timely and necessary.

Engaging Keynote and Dynamic Workshops

The event kicked off with a keynote from bestselling author Nicola Yoon, who offered a refreshing perspective on balancing creativity and commercialism in the book industry. Her forthcoming YA novel, Always One More Time, is set for a 2027 release by Delacorte. Yoon's ability to intertwine personal anecdotes with industry insights created an atmosphere of relatability. Her humorous advice to avoid Goodreads during the writing process struck a chord, especially with an audience comprised of individuals grappling with the tension between artistic expression and market demands. As writers and booksellers seek to differentiate themselves, Yoon's suggestion to cultivate an open-minded approach to storytelling points to the need for adaptability in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

A New Focus on BIPOC Representation

A significant part of the Fall Fest was dedicated to fostering diversity within the bookselling community. The BIPOC roundtable, led by Jhoanna Belfer of Bel Canto Books, stimulated lively discussions about supporting emerging BIPOC booksellers. The dialogue was characterized by a genuine eagerness among participants to explore innovative strategies to cultivate an inclusive environment, ensuring that diverse voices are not only heard but celebrated. It’s a reflection of an industry increasingly aware of its cultural responsibilities. Discussion topics ranged from mentorship programs to collaboration models that help elevate BIPOC authors and booksellers. What’s notable is that this isn’t just about representation; it’s about reshaping an entire community that can provide a richer, more nuanced view of literature that reflects today’s society.

Insights from Industry Experts

Veteran booksellers like Paul Yamazaki, famed for his role as the book buyer at San Francisco's City Lights, shared crucial insights during the panel discussions. His emphasis on the commercial viability of indie publishers signaled a shift in focus for many attendees. Yamazaki explained the significant potential of independent books among indie bookshops, often on par with larger press releases. This perspective is especially relevant as independent bookstores face mounting pressure from both e-commerce giants and large retail chains. Attendees listened closely as he detailed how certain niche genres and local authors can drive significant sales, reinforcing the idea that indie booksellers have the unique capacity to curate collections that cater specifically to their communities. After all, the relationship between a bookseller and their clientele can often feel more personal compared to that of larger corporations.

Celebrating Excellence in Indie Literature

This year's Fall Fest marked the inaugural formal awards ceremony honoring winners of CALIBA’s Golden Poppy awards, which recognize outstanding contributions from California-based authors. CALIBA leadership, including Executive Director Hannah Walcher, emphasized their commitment to building on this year’s momentum and expanding future gatherings. Such recognitions not only validate the hard work of authors and booksellers but also serve to inspire others in the community. Events like this foster an environment of appreciation that is vital for sustaining a thriving literary culture, showing that good work does not go unnoticed. By promoting excellence in literature, CALIBA is betting on the notion that a vibrant indie ecosystem can stimulate further interest and engagement in reading.

Community and Growth Moving Forward

The festivities wrapped up with a fun “Heads or Tails” fundraiser, benefiting the Book Industry Charitable Foundation (Binc). Attendees, including Renee Joyce from Moonstone & Mist Bookshop, found the event invaluable for networking and gathering insights as they navigate the complexities of bookselling. The lighthearted nature of the fundraiser exemplified the community spirit prevalent throughout Fall Fest. Events like these not only foster camaraderie but also serve a greater purpose—raising funds for initiatives that support industry professionals in need, something that's particularly critical in uncertain times. By connecting booksellers who share similar struggles, CALIBA helps cultivate a network that will be pivotal in pushing forward progressive changes within the industry.

Implications for the Future of Indie Bookselling

Reflecting on this year’s discussions—community support, business viability, and celebrating diverse voices—Walcher stated, “We’re going to keep working, and keep growing because independent bookselling is vital to Californian life.” If you're working in this space, pay attention. The continued dedication of CALIBA members to fostering a rich literary culture signals a proactive stance against the ongoing threats to independent bookstores from online retail giants. As consumer habits shift, it’s evident that cultivating a sense of belonging and advocacy among booksellers and readers alike will be key. The future of independent bookselling in California and nationwide hinges on these relationships. In a time when many industries are rethinking their operational models, this focus on community and diversity could pave the way for resilience and growth within the indie book sector.

Matthew Hattie Hein co-owns Hey Books! with Anika Omark in San Diego.