American Booksellers Association Announces a New Associate Manager, Free Expression & Advocacy

The American Booksellers Association (ABA) announced Finn Butterfield (they/them) as the new Associate Manager, Free Expression & Advocacy. For the past six years, Finn has been serving as an IndieCommerce Support Specialist at the ABA and was instrumental in resolving complex member issues, developing educational resources, and leading the IndieCommerce 2.0 platform migration.

ABA CEO’s Allison Hill commented, “Since Finn started at ABA they've been someone I've counted on for honest communication and a commitment to making our work more equitable, …I've been struck by the ways Finn has been an advocate in their personal life and their consistent commitment to helping independent bookstores through support and education.”

David Grogan, Director, Free Expression, Advocacy & Public Policy for ABA added “I am happy to have Finn join the advocacy team, Finn’s deep understanding of our member community and unwavering dedication to independent booksellers makes them an invaluable addition. I look forward to seeing the positive impact Finn will undoubtedly have in this new role.”

In moving to ABA’s Advocacy/Free Expression division beginning September 21, Finn will work to champion intellectual freedom, support independent booksellers’ right to free expression, and advance critical free expression initiatives, among other advocacy issues.

Finn expressed their eagerness and excitement and said “Reading has always been so integral to my being and that has been fostered by indie bookstores and the community they create. Literacy, the right to read, and free expression has and always will be a passion that is personal and of the utmost importance to me. Books have helped shape me into the person I am today and continue to be a source of education, entertainment, escapism, and enlightenment that I vehemently believe everyone should have equal access to.”

Prior to their role with IndieCommerce, Finn worked as a bookseller at Towne Center Books from 2017 to 2020, gaining foundational experience in the industry. Throughout their career, Finn has demonstrated a strong commitment to member advocacy, clear communication, and collaborative problem-solving.

Finn’s start date will begin September 21, 2026. At that time, members can reach Finn for support regarding harassment, free expression, and any advocacy questions at abfe@bookweb.org.