Q: How do I attend a free in-store event?
A: To come to an event, all you need to do is show up and mask up. That said, we greatly appreciate you pre-registering so that we can plan accordingly—your registration helps us so much! It also helps you, by allowing us to get in touch with you to remind you about the event and to alert you of any changes. If you register and can't make the event, just let us know. If you don't have a chance to register beforehand, you can still attend as long as we have enough seats. Standing/overflow room may also be available.
Q: Does it cost money to attend?
A: Currently, our in-store events continue to be free to attend! We encourage you to support our events program, authors, and local economy with a book purchase (or two or three!)
Q: Can I get a seat without registering?
A: Depending on the size of the event, we may hold seats for people who pre-registered, which we release when the event starts. We will always try to accommodate walk-ups and make as many seats as possible available!
Q: I just want to stand and watch the event from outside of the Skylight Room!
A: That’s fine. The event will be audible (and visible in some places) beyond the Skylight Room, so feel free to observe as long as you are being respectful and keeping walkways clear.
Q: Do I need to wear a mask?
A: Masking policy varies event-to-event depending on the author's preferences. Thank you for honoring their requests and keeping one another safe!
Q: Do I need proof of vaccination?
A: Not currently.
Q: Can I save myself a seat in the event space, and then browse the store?
A: Yes! The Skylight Room will be open for the event starting around 30 minutes to 1 hour before the event starts. Please enjoy the store—and buy books! Just be sure to take your seat by the time the event starts.
Q: Can I reserve a specific seat? Do you assign seating?
A: We offer unassigned, open seating for our free in-store events! Depending on the size of the event, registration may hold you an unassigned seat until the event begins. If you have an ADA need/request, please email to events@bookshopsantacruz.com by an hour before the event starts.
Q: Why do you need my email when I register?
A: We ask for your email so that we can communicate with you about the event, including sending helpful reminder emails. We may also alert you to similar Bookshop Santa Cruz events you might enjoy. We will never sell your email to anyone, ever.
Q: Can I watch in-person events from my laptop at home?
A: Sorry, hybrid (in-person + virtual) events are surprisingly difficult and resource-intensive to produce, and we are not able to offer that viewing experience at this time.
Last updated: March 20th, 2023