For many people, books provide comfort, distraction, or a window into another world—something we could all use a little bit more of these days. Today’s show explores how readers are accessing books and supporting local bookstores and literary events in new ways, from the distance.

First, we talk to Joanne Berg, Jayne Rowsam, and Charlotte Colaluca of independent bookstore Mystery to Me about what they’ve been doing to connect readers to books during the crisis, including email and phone recommendations and curbside delivery, and how the online book world has rallied to support indie bookstores.

Then, Conor Moran, director of the Wisconsin Book Festival, talks about what it’s been like moving the festival online and previews some of their upcoming virtual events.

Cover photo by Renee Fisher on Unsplash