Urgent Update From GLIBA

Great Lakes Independent Booksellers Association Announces Transition to Goth Trade Association

The Great Lakes Independent Booksellers Association (GLIBA) today announced a bold evolution in its organizational identity: it is now officially a Goth trade association.

Inspired by the rapid rise of genre dedicated bookstores, romance, sci-fi, romantasy, mystery and more. GLIBA leadership began asking an important question: If retail spaces can specialize by genre, why can’t a regional trade association?

Effective immediately, GLIBA will embrace a Goth forward approach to bookselling advocacy, education, and community building. This shift reflects both aesthetic and philosophical alignment, including:

• A deep appreciation for the darker, moodier corners of literature and life
• A commitment to independent spirit, nonconformity, and artistic expression
• A recognition that bookstores are sanctuaries, often dimly lit, emotionally resonant, and filled with stories of longing, resistance, and existential reflection
• The understanding that black is not just a color, it’s a merchandising strategy


Programming updates will include candlelit educational sessions, increased focus on gothic literature and adjacent genres, and a reconsideration of dress code expectations at conferences.
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In conjunction with the announcement, GLIBA has released a new shirt featuring its updated logo. Shirts are now available for purchase.

“At our core, we’ve always been about community, resilience, and carving out space for independent voices in a world that often feels increasingly homogenized. Those values align naturally with Goth culture. Also, many of us were already wearing a lot of black.”
- Larry Law, Executive Director of GLIBA

GLIBA encourages its member bookstores and partners to lean into the transition at whatever level feels appropriate. Whether that’s expanding gothic sections, hosting themed events, or simply acknowledging that the vibe has shifted.

“As someone that loves a pastel color scheme, this is definitely a trying time for the organization. However, we are no strangers to industry shifts, and we’ll always be pillars of support for our stores. (Although maybe a lot more dour.)”
- February Spikener, Executive Coordinator of GLIBA

For more information, membership resources, or to purchase official GLIBA merchandise, please visit GLIBA’s website.

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