Affinity Programs

ABA affinity partner Bank of America Merchant Services will waive the $75 application fee for booksellers who sign up for its credit card processing program from April 10 through August 31, 2009.

By popular request, W.G. Ellerkamp is now offering environmentally friendly, biodegradable plastic IndieBound bags. These plastic bags are made with 10 - 15 percent recycled material and will break down safely within a few years when buried or composted.

The phone lines for LIBRIS, the business insurance program for booksellers offered by the American Booksellers Association, are temporarily out of service.

W.G. Ellerkamp offers ABA members IndieBound paper merchandise and shopping bags, reusable totes, and a variety of giftwrap designs.

W.G. Ellerkamp, the supplier of ABA's IndieBound paper and cloth bags, is now offering member stores an expanded line of giftwrap, as well as lower prices on handled paper shopping bags.

FedEx and UPS have both announced rate increases, effective January 5, 2009.

From now until December 12, W.G. Ellerkamp is offering 10 to 15 percent discounts on IndieBound paper bags, reusable totes, and giftwrap. The sale, which company president Jack Ellerkamp said is their way of saying thanks to ABA members for their business, includes merchandise bags, handled shopping bags, and the very popular Peace. Love. Books. reusable tote.

Booksellers searching for affordable, comprehensive business insurance who want to stay true to the IndieBound movement need look no further than LIBRIS, the property, liability, and workers' compensation insurance, developed by the American Booksellers Association to address the specific needs of independent bookstore

Now's the time to stock up on IndieBound shopping bags. From now until September 30, ABA member booksellers will receive a 15 percent discount on both stock and personalized IndieBound bags and on giftwrap ordered from W.G. Ellerkamp.

As individuals and businesses nationwide look to counter the effects of the struggling economy, the American Booksellers Association reminds booksellers to check out the dollars-and-cents savings available to all Regular Bookstore Members.