In the area around the mall when I worked there, we had a lot of immigrant families, so history and business wasn't really in demand, but fiction, kids, and self-improvement were hot topics, with the genre fiction being the biggest (romance, mystery, and sci-fi).
That is so awesome, because that is totally what I was thinking -- we have a lot of immigrant families, too, and increasing (as far as I can see) people like me -- young professional types. Conveniently, those are also the kind of books I would want to buy!
Fuck, the more I think about this the more awesome it feels. The whole idea is so out of character for me, but I don't know -- maybe it could happen.
I mean, I've always loved books and bookstores, and I've probably paid more attention to them than the typical person, because I've always thought, "If I were in charge, here's how this would work" about everything.
Good for you, Jesse!! I hope you can get it to work! If you don't have big-box competition, even better. Definitely do a lot of research by checking out all different bookstores, all different clientele and sizes, and talk to the managers, especially those with indie stores. Do a little websurfing and see if you can find an LJ indie-bookstore-owner group, and contact the ABA (American Booksellers Association) for support groups and networking. Research the hell out of your field and neighborhood before committing to a business plan and loan.
Joining the ABA costs like $350, which I figure I should earn working in a bookstore to show myself good faith. And then there's so many resources! There's really a ton of shit out there. Of course, there are also small bookstores closing all the freaking time, but still.
In today's bookselling world, I'd definitely back up your IRL store with a decent website--online orders, especially if a local customer can order at midnight for pickup in a few days at your store is a big plus over Amazon.
So many things to think about!
Jesse--my mom had a used bookstore for many years, and one of the things which drew customers in was unique cards which she kept right by the window. People would come in to get a handmade birthday card and walk out with a couple of mysteries and a cookbook.
Eh I am not looking forward to working tomorrow. On the upside I am sleepy so it won't be a big stretch to get myself in bed in a while (I'm east coast so it's almost 11)
I'm about to open an ING checking account. Anyone have a referral link they want to shoot me? I don't know for sure if you can get the bonus since I already have the savings account, but it can't hurt to try.
Robin, for a good wall sconce, you might want to wait for Restoration Hardware's big lamp sale. That's when we got sconces. I think it was in October or November or so, soon.
Jesse, I don't know if I've mentioned it (and fie on me if I haven't), but a former coworker of mine opened a bookstore a few miles up the road from me in an antique district just this year. Let me know if you want her email.
