Some tips from the Pros on how to operate a successful bookshop.
A link from author Laura Lippman had me intrigued, so I clicked, and had a great gut laugh. Two men got into an argument ‘over literature’. The teeny article had no specifics as to what the argument entailed. Which got me thinking, what aspect of the literary world would I be so het up about, … Read more
I collect images. Physical ones, and virtual ones. I have stacks of illustrated children’s books, crime fiction dust jacketed books, Deco magazines and books, whatever grabs my eye and is pleasing, I want, no need, to keep. On flickr I have uploaded over 16,000 images. I used to be able to claim most came from … Read more
Rare book dealers have a certain image in pop culture. They are generally a bit eccentric, standoffish, erudite, and curmudgeonly. Librarians have a somewhat similar image, but generally are more aimed at facilitating the wide dissemination of knowledge. The book dealer is much more personal. They may only share their best material with a special … Read more
We all realize the straits independent bookshops are in. Print books can only finance the store so far. Many stores have opted to offer toys, gift items, some have opened a coffee shop within. So, with this in mind, why not utilize some of the pieces books and other items sit upon. If the piece … Read more
My friend and superlative bookseller/bookshop owner, Maryelizabeth Hart, owner of The Mysterious Galaxy–with two locations now!–posted a link to this article on Facebook, and I just had to share! The article discusses what things an author who visits for an event or signing should do while there, and after leaving. Some of the points I’ve … Read more
I remember calling up an author to set her up for a signing. Nothing unusual about that. However, the signing was in relationship to her having been nominated for an Edgar–the prestigious award given to outstanding crime fiction each year by the Mystery Writers of America. When she answered, I congratulated her, and she was … Read more
Publisher’s Weekly covered the announcement by Barnes and Noble, that they will not carry anything published by Amazon in their brick and mortar stores. The fact that I am championing B&N is not lost on me. Me, who ten years ago likened B&N to the ‘Evil Empire’, like the Soviet Union. But now, just like … Read more
I was off looking for a different article, when my path crossed this rather nice upbeat article on the state of indies. Take a gander and hopefully it will give you a spring in your step as you enter your shops. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/william-petrocelli/a-band-of-determined-ecce_b_1242177.html?ref=books
