ABA Sponsors 'Fundamentals of Independent Bookselling' at BEA

In an era where there is more retail space devoted to selling books than ever before, starting, sustaining, and growing a profitable bookstore business requires that each person in a management role fully understand the fundamentals of book retailing. From May 1 through May 3, ABA is sponsoring a three-day booksellers school to help booksellers deal with crucial business issues in "Fundamentals of Independent Bookselling -- Strategies for Understanding and Growing a Profitable Business," at this year’s BookExpo America.

Fundamentals of Independent Bookselling is especially designed for any bookseller who is considering opening a bookstore; who is buying an existing bookstore; who still feels new to the business or is new to a management role; who is aspiring to a leadership position; or who wants a better understanding of book retailing. The three-day school runs Wednesday, May 1, from 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Thursday, May 2, from 9:00 a.m. - noon, 2:15 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.; and Friday, May 3, from 9:00 a.m. - noon. The school will be held at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City.

Participating in this year’s workshop will be former bookseller and full-time bookstore consultant, Donna Paz; marketing professional, Mark Kaufman; several owners of profitable independent bookstores; as well as other professionals from the industry. Each will give their own insights and networking tips to help booksellers succeed in today’s retail climate. Furthermore, the school will educate booksellers on how to improve profitability; gain a marketing competitive advantage; assess the right merchandise mix; achieve an effective store layout and design; and implement strategies for getting it all done.

On Thursday morning, May 2, booksellers will have the opportunity to attend one workshop of their interest and the "ABA Bright Prospects Business Luncheon," or to take a tour of local bookstores (including the one that inspired the film You’ve Got Mail!). The choice of workshops on Thursday morning includes special ABA programming on Bookstore Finances, Inventory Management, and Marketing Strategy.

The $325 registration fee to "Fundamentals of Independent Bookselling" includes free registration to BookExpo America. Advanced registration is necessary since there are only 60 slots available for the workshop. Those interested should contact Kristen Gilligan at (800) 637-0037, ext. 1286, or via e-mail at Kristen@bookweb.org.