James Patterson surprises 600 bookstore workers with $500 holiday bonuses
- James Patterson awarded $500 bonuses to 600 booksellers to acknowledge their hard work.
- Recipients were nominated by co-workers and customers from independent bookstores.
- His ongoing support highlights the importance of booksellers in the literary community.
In a generous gesture to support the book industry, bestselling author James Patterson provided $500 holiday bonuses to 600 booksellers across various independent bookstores. This initiative was part of Patterson's ongoing effort to recognize the hard work and dedication of booksellers, which he believes are crucial to the literary community. Among the recipients are employees from Thank You Books in Birmingham, Alabama, San Francisco's City Lights Books, and The Nook in Cedar Falls, Iowa. The selection process involved nominations from both co-workers and customers who highlighted the contributions of these booksellers. Patterson's philanthropic endeavors in the literary field date back to 2015 when he began awarding bonuses to independent bookstore employees. His motivations not only stem from a desire to acknowledge booksellers but also reflect his long-standing appreciation of their vital role in promoting literature and fostering a love for reading within communities. In a statement released earlier this month, Patterson emphasized the importance of booksellers, acknowledging that they "save lives" through their work. The CEO of the American Booksellers Association, Allison Hill, also expressed gratitude for Patterson's generosity, noting how his support highlights the significant role independent booksellers play in the industry. She shared her admiration for Patterson's commitment to recognizing and rewarding these individuals during a challenging retail environment, starkly affected by e-commerce competition and changing consumer habits. In addition to supporting booksellers, Patterson has made substantial financial contributions to schools, libraries, and literacy programs, demonstrating his commitment to fostering reading and education in America. His impactful service to the literary community has not gone unnoticed, as the National Book Foundation honored him with the Literarian Award for his outstanding contributions. This recognition showcased Patterson's dedication to not only writing but also advocating for the literary arts across the nation.