Bookshop.org and Draft2Digital Unite to Boost Independent Bookstores with Self-Published Ebooks

A New Dawn for Independent Bookstores

In an exciting development for the world of publishing, Bookshop.org has joined forces with Draft2Digital, creating a unique opportunity for independent bookstores to thrive in the digital age. This collaboration not only broadens the availability of self-published ebooks on Bookshop.org’s platform but also reinvigorates the indie bookstore sector, enabling them to earn from a vast array of titles that were previously out of their reach.

The Impact of the Partnership

As of February 4, 2026, this partnership allows indie bookstores to sell ebooks sourced from a pool of hundreds of thousands of self-published titles offered by Draft2Digital. This move is revolutionary, given the rapid scale with which the ebook market has grown. Bookshop.org, recognized for its commitment to supporting local bookstores, saw record earnings in 2025, with indie shops collectively earning over $9.5 million. With this partnership, the income potential for bookstores that partner with Bookshop.org could grow even more.

A notable point is that 100% of the profits from the sales of Draft2Digital-distributed ebooks on Bookshop.org go directly to the independent bookstores. This model not only sustains the stores financially but also fosters a direct relationship with readers, creating a more engaged community.

Boosting Visibility for Indie Authors

The partnership comes at a moment when the cultural relevance of indie authors is on the rise. Self-published authors, once relegated to the sidelines, are now climbing bestseller lists, securing film contracts, and gaining loyal readerships due to their unique voices and narrative styles. Andy Hunter, the Founder and CEO of Bookshop.org, emphasizes that indie bookstores are becoming crucial players in the literary ecosystem, and with this arrangement, they can now offer a diverse selection of books that resonate with modern readers.

Jane Friedman, a respected voice in the publishing industry, echoed this sentiment, noting that the stigma around self-publishing has vanished. Indie authors have proven their ability to produce quality writing and market their works effectively, changing the face of today’s literary landscape.

Expanding the Catalog

Draft2Digital boasts a catalog of over one million titles, featuring acclaimed authors like Jan Moran, Piper Lawson, and Kristen Ashley. Currently, a substantial collection of these ebooks is available on Bookshop.org, with plans for a significant expansion in the foreseeable future. Indie authors and publishers interested in listing their works can easily opt into the distribution through Draft2Digital’s user-friendly platform.

According to Kris Austin, CEO of Draft2Digital, the partnership is set to allow independent bookstores to take advantage of the burgeoning ebook market. This collaboration empowers bookstores to stock high-quality indie titles that stand competitive with those from traditional publishers, thereby redefining readers' access to literature.

Strengthening the Literary Ecosystem

Since its inception in 2020, Bookshop.org has generated over $44 million for independent bookstores in the U.S. Its ebook platform provides readers with the opportunity to enjoy digital books while supporting local businesses. In scenarios where ebook purchases aren’t directed to a specific store, profits are distributed among participating bookstores, further fortifying the entire literary community.

To discover more about Draft2Digital and to explore its offerings, readers can visit Draft2Digital.com and follow them on social media. Similarly, Bookshop.org invites readers to explore its mission-driven platform and discover how purchasing ebooks can contribute to the sustainability of local bookstores.

Through this partnership, Bookshop.org and Draft2Digital are proving that collaboration can lead to significant growth within the publishing landscape, encouraging readers to support local bookstores while enjoying a vast library of indie authors. This transformative approach is bound to reshape the economy surrounding ebooks and redefine the relationship between authors, bookstores, and readers alike.