Now on BookWeb: Bookstore Strategies for Becoming More Inclusive

Booksellers can now access a list of suggestions generated during ABA education sessions aimed at helping stores develop strategies for strengthening the unique role they play in their communities.

The American Booksellers Association’s interactive discussion “Bookstores — An Inclusive Place for Dialogue and Discovery” was held at ABA’s 10 Spring Forums, which took place in cities around the country in March and April; booksellers also discussed this topic at Winter Institute 2017’s Bookseller Discussion Groups in Minneapolis.

During the Spring Forum sessions, held in response to member feedback and requests, and the Winter Institute Bookseller Discussion Groups, participants brainstormed ideas for how independent bookstores can foster communication and create opportunities for people of diverse backgrounds to express and respond to differing views in the welcoming setting of a bookstore.

The numerous suggestions resulting from these brainstorming sessions have been compiled into a comprehensive document and grouped under six keywords: activism, community, diversity, empathy, outreach, and sanctuary.

Booksellers can access the document now in ABA’s Education Curriculum on BookWeb (a username and password are required; booksellers needing login information can e-mail [email protected]).