As a small non-profit, we are acutely aware of the challenges facing small businesses in our communities right now. We urge each of you to do something each day to support local businesses or organizations that might be negatively affected by the outbreak. At the heart of everything, we are all in this together. In that light, we wanted to share some of our favorite books that reflect conservation issues, with links to two of our favorite local bookstores The Country Bookshop in Southern Pines, and the South Main Book Company, in Salisbury.

With the state under a stay-at-home order, books can be a great way to pass the time or for a little escapism. Kimberly Taws, general manager of the Country Bookshop, has noticed many people purchasing books about nature, gardening, and “classics that they never got around to reading.” All in all, it seems, most “people just really want a good, engrossing book right now,” Taws says.

The Country Bookshop in Southern Pines has adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic by offering curbside service and free local delivery to customers to who order online or over the phone.  Meanwhile, The South Main Book Company is doing its part by making a donation to a Salisbury-based Pack The Pantry Program with every gift card sold, while also making personal deliveries to customers’ mailboxes. The good news is that as the Governor considers bookstores essential businesses, so they will remain open during the state-wide shelter in place order.

Read on for a selection of books that reflect the conservation spirit of the Land Trust, with links to both bookstores. We hope these picks expand your understanding of a wide-range of conservation issues, and also keeps you company in the days ahead.

Do you have books you think should be on this list? Send us and email and we’ll be sure to add it to the website!