Richard Erdmann, vice president of the Independent Online Booksellers Association (IOBA), tells me he’s been hearing of problems from members in the U.S. and abroad. Even when dealers correctly label a package as informational material, “the shipping companies are erring on the side of caution and labeling it as something other than just a book” — and tacking on extra charges.

Recent changes to U.S. trade policies have harmed the book trade. The IOBA has a duty to support its members–booksellers who are being negatively impacted. See the IOBA's official letter sent to U.S. Congress and Senate committees. We are doing what we can to advocate for our members.

Read all about the 2023 David Ruggles Prize winners here: https://rugglesprize.org/winners