Charter Books in Newport has been named the New England Independent Bookstore of the Year by the Book Publishers Representatives of New England (BPRNE). The award, announced at the New England Independent Booksellers Association’s (NEIBA) 51st annual fall conference in Newton, Massachusetts, recognizes independent bookstores in business for at least three years that demonstrate exceptional creativity in bookselling.
This is the first time the Independent Spirit Award, now in its 20th year, has been bestowed upon a Rhode Island bookstore. Steve Iwanski, Founder & Owner of Charter Books, accepted the honor.
“It is a privilege to be so quickly honored as a leader in just our fourth year by BPRNE and NEIBA,” said Iwanski. He emphasized that the award reflects the creativity of the store’s staff and their dedication to catering to the reading preferences of both the local Newport community and their online followers.
Iwanski highlighted the collaborative nature of the achievement, stating, “Our customers, from near and far, have provided us with the inspiration to continually expand what Charter Books offers and to seek opportunities to increase our role in the community with key partners. It is an award shared by many.”
Charter Books, open seven days a week, is located on Lower Broadway in Newport, Rhode Island. For online purchases and information about upcoming events, visit charterbookstore.com.
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) assisted a What’sUpNewp journalist with the reporting included in this story.
