Books, Stimulation, Expectation...

I'm told by Shelf Awareness that Redbery Books in Cable, Wisconsin, recently began using the tagline "Books: The Ultimate Stimulus Package." The phrase doesn't appear on their website, but kudos to these booksellers for thinking creatively about the IRS Economic Stimulus Payments. How better to utilize that random chunk of money (or, as my tax preparer speculated, advance on next year's refund) than by patronizing independent bookstores?

I've been thinking a lot about the Stimulus Payments, too. Actually, with a little help from some very creative friends, I'm working on a little venture that offers my own alternative for using that cash in a way that has a real economic impact. The campaign should launch by early next week -- keep your eyes on this space for details.

And while you're getting all anticipatory... it's totally time to look forward to BEA! Here are just two of my highlights for maximum butterflies-in-the-stomach expectation:

The ABA Celebration of Bookselling at 5:00 on Wednesday, May 28, in addition to being the usual joyous drinky/snacky/chatty gathering of booksellers from across the country, is going to mark the unveiling of something the ABA has been working on for the last couple of years. I've been sworn to secrecy, but I've seen a preview of this announcement... and it made me cry, in the good way. It's not often a branding/marketing initiative does that to ya, but when you're in a business that incorporates some of your highest ideals, sometimes you get lucky that way. I may try to give you some further hints as we get closer... but most importantly, don't miss the unveiling!!

And right after that, if you're one of us under-40 booksellers, don't miss the Second Annual BEA Emerging Leaders Party! We'll be sending out an invite to our mailing list soon and posting info in industry periodicals, but I'm giving you the sneak preview now:

Wednesday, May 28, 7:00 to 9:00
The Woods, 1533 N La Brea Ave (less than 10 minutes' walk from Hotel ABA)
OPEN BAR 7:00 to 8:00, courtesy of Reed Business
Featuring hip authors to meet, young booksellers to mingle with, and tips on making the most of your BEA

No RSVP needed, though we'll probably need some bookseller ID at the door. Hope to see you all there and get the party that is BEA started!

Comments

Anonymous said…
Actually, we did something similar a month or so ago with our Sustainable Business Network--we calculated how much money would be coming into the area with the checks, and talked about the multiplier effect, and so on. Held a press conference and got some good coverage, so I'd definitely recommend it!
Anonymous said…
I think the phrase "stimulus package" might be George W. Bush's one great contribution to the English language.

That and "misunderestimated."

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