Advocacy
for the people involved in bookselling and to promote and support book culture
An important part of SIBA’s mission is to advocate for the people involved in bookselling, and to promote and support book culture. SIBA was formed to unite in one organization individuals and businesses actively engaged in the writing, selling, publishing, distribution and/or promoting of books in the South. SIBA provides a forum to discuss common problems and share ideas; offers educational programs and workshops for the benefit of its members; and strives to promote a high standard of ethics and business practices among the membership.
Book Banning
The Southern Independent Booksellers Alliance opposes efforts to ban books and censor events at independent bookstores. In 2023, following the precipitous rise of book ban challenges in the United States and especially in the states in SIBA’s territory, SIBA issued a statement condemning book banning and supporting its member bookstores that find themselves fighting book bans in their communities. As one SIBA children’s store owner stated, "We may become the only places left where kids see themselves in the books they read."
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
SIBA is committed to equity and unequivocally declares its dedication to inclusivity and diversity, not only within its organization but fostering these values in the bookselling community. It works to amplify diverse voices in its programming, offers diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training and resources to its members, and actively seeks transparency and accountability in its efforts and initiatives.
Crisis Response and Outreach
Weather events such as hurricanes, floods, and forest fires are a fact of life in the South. SIBA develops and collects resources and tools to help booksellers in a time of crisis, whether that means a natural disaster, such as a hurricane, or another kind of emergency situation, such as a violent outbreak.