WP Article: Independent Book Stores on the Rise

[ProfCrash]

http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifest...9LJ_story.html

The American Booksellers Association, the national trade organization for independently owned bookstores, counted a 7 percent growth last year and has gained 100 new members i n the past six months. The association now counts 1,830 member stores across the country, up by 400 since 2005, according to Meg Smith, the association’s spokeswoman. The new stores have opened in at least 35 states, from New York to California, an indication that store owners across the nation see an opportunity to find a concrete niche in the e-book world.

“The takeaway is that independent bookselling is still a desirable profession and it’s sustainable,” Smith says.

I am not surprised.

[taustin]

I'm not either. It's like the family farm. You hear about the death of the great American dream, crushed under the corporate boot heel, but it's only the ones who don't know what they're doing who can't survive in a competetive market. The smart ones are too busy taking care of business to give interviews.

[ProfCrash]

It makes sense that people would take advantage of the decline of the huge book sotre. A smaller store, with less stock and helpful staff will be a draw for people who enjoy reading. You might have to wait a bit if they need to order a book for you but having someone there to help you and feelng the personal touch will be attractive to lots of people.

[xg4bx]

nature abhors a vacuum. i'm sure a few indie video stores will start popping up again too.