Vashon Bookshop will celebrate Independent Bookstore Day 2019, a one-day national party hosted by independent booksellers across the country for readers and customers, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, April 27.

The cozy bookshop in the town center of Vashon is, like many other independent bookstores throughout the country, much more than a mere storefront. It is an anchor for the island’s literary scene that includes writers, readers, librarians and publishers. It is a gathering spot, performance space, and a quiet place to explore the world of books.

Vashon Bookshop is now in its 18th year in business — something to celebrate after the 2008 recession, the rise of Amazon, the advent of e-books, the demise of many big brick-and-mortar booksellers and the shuttering of countless smaller independent storefronts across the country.

“We are so grateful for our customers,” said owner Nancy Katica, “and proud to be a part of such a well-read and supportive island of readers.”

To celebrate and give back to the community, the bookshop will offer a one-day 10% discount on everything in the store. In addition, the staff will pass out coupons, while they last, for additional discounts of $2 or $3 or $5 off, or for a free new or used book, or an additional 10% off each purchase. There will be surprise giveaways as well. Sale baskets and special deals will be found throughout the shop, and there will be cake, compliments of Snapdragon Bakery.

There will also be a live performance by local artists. Musician Camille Reeves will perform from noon to 1:30 p.m. Thomas Hitoshi Pruiksma will preside at a table of poet’s magic, where islanders can experience some of his blend of performing poetry and magic tricks, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Catbird will play from 3 to 4:30 p.m.