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US author James Patterson has followed through on his promise to donate $1m to US independent bookstores, choosing an initial 55 recipients.
A total of $267,000 (£160,000) has been handed out in grants which range from $2,000 to $15,000.
In most instances, bookstores got what they requested but a few got even more money, Publishers Weekly reported.
Part of the sum will support 93 bookstores participating in California Bookstore Day, a statewide celebration — overseen by the Northern California Independent Booksellers Association — that will be held on 3rd May.
Patterson has chosen stores which do a lot to support and encourage literacy in the community, according to Publishers Lunch.
The author used his own research as well as recommendations from other authors to determine which shops should benefit.
Patterson said: “Every day, booksellers are out there saving our country’s literature. The work they do to support schools and the rest of their communities leaves a lasting love of reading in children and adults. I believe their work is vital to our future as a country. What are we if we don't have our own literature? I couldn't be happier to, very humbly, support booksellers in their mission. Maybe that’s because it's my mission as well."
The release indicated that some stores had submitted proposals for how the money would be used while others would receive an unsolicited cheque and a note from the author encouraging them to use the funds to continue doing the work they do.
It added: "Patterson selected recipient stores by researching which stores are doing the very best work in their communities to further literature and reading. In addition, he’s asked fellow authors, as well as the ABA (American Booksellers Association), publishers, and other industry professionals, for suggestions."