How James Patterson supports library workers every holiday

Best-selling author James Patterson is once again spreading holiday cheer by recognizing the hard work and dedication of independent bookstore employees across the United States.

James Patterson is known for his philanthropic efforts in the literary world, offering bonuses totaling $300,000 to 600 bookstore employees this holiday season.

Independent bookstores have long been a cornerstone of their communities, offering not only books but also safe spaces to create, learn, and connect. Patterson, through his publisher Little, Brown & Company, emphasized the profound influence of booksellers, saying, “Booksellers save lives.”

“Booksellers save lives. Period,” Patterson said. ABC News. “I am thrilled to be able to recognize them and all their hard work this holiday season.”

The 600 bookstore employees selected for the rewards either applied or were nominated by a co-worker, author or friend through the American Booksellers Association (ABA). This year’s recipients include: Davis Gustafson of Thanksgiving Books in Birmingham, Alabama; Erin Messer of City Lights in San Francisco, California; Brandon Conrad of The Nook in Cedar Falls, Iowa; Gina Marks of The Lynx in Gainesville, Florida; and Kirsten Craig of Whale’s Tale Books in Lakewood, Colorado.

Others include Ada Denenfeld Kelly of Broadside Library in Northampton, Massachusetts; Anna Gemmell of Odyssey Library in South Hadley, Massachusetts; Julia Zephyr of the Bunch of Grapes bookstore in Vineyard Haven, v; Debra Horan of Booklovers’ Gourmet in Webster, Massachusetts; Kenyatta Ingram of Reading Riches in Abingdon, Massachusetts; and Janice Holmes of Old Fox Books & Coffeehouse in Annapolis, Massachusetts.

“We appreciate Mr. Patterson’s financial generosity as well as his generosity of spirit. We all remain in awe of and grateful for Mr. Patterson’s continued support of independent booksellers,” Alison Hill, CEO of the American Booksellers Association (ABA), said in a statement. “It means everything to have it recognize and reward the valuable role booksellers play in the industry.”

While the $500 bonuses provide financial relief during the holiday season, the gesture has a deeper meaning. It is a reminder that the work of booksellers is not only seen, but deeply valued. These employees don’t just sell books, they connect readers with stories that can inspire, educate, and even change their lives.

This isn’t Patterson’s first act of generosity toward booksellers. Over the years, he has consistently advocated for independent bookstores, believing that they play an essential role in promoting literacy and building vibrant communities.

In March of this year, the Writers Guild of America announced that the thriller novelist would contribute $600,000 to distribute to booksellers. Earlier, in 2020, Patterson donated $500,000 to independent bookstores across the United States.

“The White House is concerned about saving the airline industry and big businesses — I understand that,” Patterson said in a statement. “But I am concerned about the survival of independent bookstores, which are located in the heart of Main Streets across the country.” “I believe books are essential. They make us kinder, more compassionate humans. They have the power to take us away, even momentarily, from feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and afraid.”

He added: “I hope that the funds we raise will keep libraries going at a time when we need them most.”

Additionally, in 2014, Patterson contributed $1 million to libraries, distributing it in grants of $15,000 per store.

“It ranges from the Andover Library, where a son and daughter have written and whose father hasn’t gotten a raise since 1988,” he said. NPR at that time. “A children’s bookstore in Baltimore, gives books to schools and wants kids to be able to keep the books. Book Passage in California will set up more book fairs with them. Little Shop of Stories in Decatur, Georgia,” mobile book buyback.

James Patterson stands as one of The most famous and prolific authors of our time, Known for its exciting stories, unforgettable characters, and exceptional ability to engage readers of all ages. With over 400 million copies sold worldwide, it holds the Guinness World Record for New York Times bestseller by a single author.

Patterson made his literary debut in 1976 with the novel Thomas Berryman’s Number, which won the Edgar Award for Best First Novel. However, it was the release of “Along Came a Spider” in 1993, which introduced the famous detective Alex Cross, that cemented his status as a literary force.