An Uncommon Definition of Success

June 19, 2012

Each year, Publishers Weekly presents two major book industry awards at BookExpo America: Bookstore of the Year and Rep of the Year. Recipients of those awards exemplify success by having been recognized for their work. Success is usually equated with … Continue reading →

One Big Tent

March 30, 2012

Communities want independent bookstores not just as a place to buy books, but as a gathering place for human interaction, inspiration for lifetime learning, and a place to go to get away from the craziness of life. Workshop graduates are planning to open indie bookstores from Florida to California and points in between. Borders has left a gap in many communities and entire markets are ready for their own community-centered bookstore.
Continue reading →

Ann Patchett’s Pulpit

February 22, 2012

Her talents reach far and wide, yet Ann Patchett has chosen to use her talents, media attention, and energy to speak up for the value of indie bookstores. As a special guest on Stephen Colbert’s Colbert Report on Comedy Central, … Continue reading →

Sales & Spirits Up

February 1, 2012

During the American Booksellers Association’s Winter Institute in New Orleans last month, there were high spirits — even before the first cocktail party. From the moment booksellers began arriving in the city that embodies strength and resilience, everyone began comparing … Continue reading →

What do you say after you say ‘hello’?

January 16, 2012

Stop me if you’ve heard this one before: “A customer walks into a bookstore … and leaves empty-handed.”

When you consider that exceptional customer service is one of the few competitive advantages that an indie bookstore can rightfully claim, it’s mind-boggling … Continue reading →