Bookstore Dues Reduction in Effect for 2009

Earlier this month, in a letter from President Gayle Shanks, the American Booksellers Association's Board of Directors announced cuts to organizational operating expenses and a 50 percent reduction in 2009 bookstore membership dues to help booksellers during these difficult economic times. The 50 percent dues reduction covers January through December 2009 membership renewals only and does not apply to late payment of 2008 membership dues. Booksellers who are uncertain about their dues expiration date, and whether an invoice covers the 2008 or 2009 renewal period, should contact ABA's Membership Department at [email protected].

Bookstores whose memberships have expired in January or February 2009 and who have already paid their 2009 dues in full will soon receive a refund check equal to one-half (1/2) of their standard renewal dues. The amount will be calculated exclusive of optional contributions to support the American Booksellers Foundation for Free Expression (ABFFE).

For booksellers who have made their first quarterly dues payment for 2009, ABA will credit the payment towards the store's first and second quarter payable amounts. The next two installments, for the third and fourth quarters, will be via ACH transfer and will be for one-half of the balance of their recalculated 2009 quarterly dues.

Any questions about dues payments should be addressed to [email protected].