Editorial: Support local businesses

One of the most frequent and pointed criticisms of members of the Duke community is our apparent lack of engagement with the life of Durham. The phrase, "living in the Gothic bubble" has become all too familiar. However, some professors and students have recently found a new way to get out into the city--shopping for textbooks. It is a seemingly simple activity, but in terms of Duke-Durham relations, it is a small step in the right direction.

 With the beginning of each new year at Duke come a variety of upgrades to the amenities on our already self-sufficient campus. Students have easy access to numerous eateries, delivery services, gym facilities, game rooms and bookstores--all without having to set foot off University property. While this adds to convenience and saves on time, it does detract from students' desire, or need to interact with the world outside of Duke. Admittedly, Durham is not the most attractive or bustling of towns, but it does have a lot to offer to those who take the time to see it.

 One mistake that students commonly make is assuming that the only way to "serve Durham" is to join an outreach program or volunteer at a school or shelter. While these are fantastic activities, they do not comprise the sum of the ways to experience Durham. Participating in the life of local businesses is an important way students can contribute to the Durham community.

 Several professors have started to order their coursebooks through the Regulator, a locally-owned bookshop on 9th Street. This practice has a positive impact on all parties involved. Students get to venture out into the city, rather than simply performing the all too familiar, mind-numbing action of going to the Bryan Center and swiping their DukeCards. Many students are also reminded of the many eateries and clubs on Ninth Street. For many Ninth Street businesses, student patronage can be the difference between fiscal success and failure. Students should make more of an effort to shop outside of Duke once in a while, and to eat at places around Durham as well, if they can afford to. However, this does not mean that they should shun the many businesses on-campus. Since The Regulator does not specialize in textbooks, it is not in direct competition with the University's on-campus store, but is an example of a valuable local business that professors and students should utilize more often.

 While the traditional modes of involvement are not to be overlooked, supporting local businesses is something everyone can do from time to time. Shop and eatery owners and employees will appreciate the business, and students will get the chance to get to know the city they call home.