Doris Moskowitz

Saturday marked a joyous occasion for many of Berkeley’s independent bookstores – the celebration of Independent Bookstore Day. 

Moe’s Books workers voted to ratify its first union contract on Tuesday, securing wage raises and additional COVID-19 safety measures, in what union steward Owen Hill described as a “good, solid contract.” 

On Saturday afternoon, about 100 supporters gathered at the intersection of Telegraph Avenue and Haste Street to celebrate the unionization of Moe's Books.

Berkeley bookstores are adjusting to COVID-19 by changing their hours, crowdfunding and using personal protective equipment, or PPE.

Moe’s Books owner Doris Moskowitz started a GoFundMe campaign Friday to help cover revenue lost during the coronavirus pandemic.

The impact of the coronavirus pandemic has led to both the state and local governments trying to relieve economic pressure off of businesses. California State Treasurer Fiona Ma released updated statements regarding state assistance to small businesses.

Staples is one of many businesses in Berkeley to have closed in the past months because of a larger movement away from retail.

Overall retail usage in Berkeley’s commercial districts has declined from 44.8 percent to 39.4 percent in just three years, according to the city’s Office of Economic Development.

Despite the rising influence of corporate businesses, Berkeley remains a vibrant place of rich culture and history — a place with character encapsulated by the still-flourishing independent bookstore scene.

Local businesses closed their doors Friday for the National Day of Action — a general strike against President Donald Trump’s administration.