Book store Reader's Companion is one example, introducing a free delivery service to cover the region.

Proprietor Roy Wheatley said business has been surprisingly brisk given the current climate of uncertainty.

"We have found that instead of buying just one book - people are stocking up and buying three," he said.

"Because of the complete unknown at the moment a lot of people are choosing to stay away from town, and it makes it hard for small businesses to survive, also if people are staying home they need something to do as well, and books are a good option."

The Readers Companion Kombi will be making daily deliveries to Armidale, and twice-weekly deliveries to Uralla, Walcha, Guyra, and out of town addresses.

"We have a very good loyal customer base, and we wanted to support them in some way during this difficult time," Mr Wheatley said.

"We understand that many of our customers are (responsibly) choosing to self-isolate as much as possible and that visiting the bookshop may not be possible.

"We have an online store, and they can order and pay over that way, or they can call us with, and we will be offering free home delivery for all local online orders.

The business announced the service two days ago, and the take up was immediate.

The Armidale based book store has been in town for six years and recently moved from a location on Beardy street opposite the newsagency to a building they bought further down the road near Hanna's Arcade.

As well as books the store has a wide selection of CDs, vinyl and turntables.