A Practical Guide to Owning and Operating a Used Bookstore
Chapter One: Getting Started
Originally published in the October 9, 1995 issue of
AB Bookman’s Weekly, a Magazine for the specialist
book world.
To see this first chapter of advice for aspiring first-timers
entering the used-book business, follow this link to my
website:
www.stillmanbooks.com/bookstore1stchapter.htm
Although it is thirteen years old, I think that the advice
in this series of articles is still relevant today. Therefore,
I’ve reprinted the first chapter in its original form, with
the exception of a couple of Author’s Notes regarding
dollar figures and popular authors.
For instance, in the 1995 publication, I suggested that
$25,000 to $30,000 would be an appropriate amount
for setting up a used-book store. I’ve added the
following caveat:
(Author’s Note: 2008 equivalent for setting up a used-book
store, probably $75,000-$100,000.)
Seven more chapters to follow over the next few weeks.
I hope you enjoy them and perhaps derive some practical
use from them.
Please visit my website for the opportunity to choose
from more than 3000 unique books:
www.stillmanbooks.com
Remember, the only book purchase you will
ever regret is the one you didn’t make.
Talk soon.
April 20th, 2010 at 6:13 am
Great discussion. And I REALLY like that you practice what you preach. That’s when you can tell a post has come together.
And I’m also fascinated by how fresh you made the routine [admit it: what you just shared has been regurgitated millions of time. ;-)].
Ben Johnson said people don’t need taught as much as they need reminding.
Good work.
June 17th, 2010 at 3:38 am
Great read. Thanks for the info!