Affinity Programs

Joining previously announced ABA affiliated business solution partners, POS vendors, and others at the Winter Institute 8 Consultation Station will be representatives of the Book Industry Charitable Foundation, BookExpo America, Ingram, LIBRIS, and Rafter.com.

As in years past, many small package shipping services and lanes will feature rate increases greater than the average increases the carriers have announced. But this year PartnerShip’s analysis shows the increases are somewhat lower on the more expensive premium services and are higher on deferred services.

On Demand Books has announced a new discount for ABA member bookstores that purchase or lease the Espresso Book Machine before August 1, 2013.

Later this month, bookstores that participated in ABA’s Constant Contact affinity program between April 30, 2011, and April 30, 2012, will receive a rebate check equivalent to their average monthly payment to Constant Contact over the 12-month period.

The ABA Booksellers Lounge (Room 1E07/08 of the Javits Center) will be the place for member booksellers to have their questions answered by ABA and IndieCommerce staff, learn about products and services, have a snack, and relax in a comfy chair.

Gail F. Goodman, president and CEO of Constant Contact, explains why companies should consider online tools an essential part of maintaining and strengthening relationships with customers and how bookstores in particular can put her advice into practice.

Dozens of national organizations and several ABA member booksellers have joined together to protest the banning of books used for the Mexican American Studies program in the Tucson Unified School District.

Beginning January 2, 2012, the cost of envelope and small package shipping via FedEx or UPS is going up.

Booksellers should schedule appointments now to meet with representatives from more than 15 service providers at the Winter Institute’s Consultation Station on Thursday, January 19.

Preparing for the holiday season? Don’t forget to stock up on Mary Engelbreit’s “A Book Is a Present You Can Open Again and Again” paper gift certificates and IndieBound bags.