There are times when a customer is so thrilled to find a particular book that a tsumani of joy resonates throughout the store. I’m not talking about a big grin and happy eyes. I mean the emotional equivalent of fireworks and bombs bursting in the air. I like sharing those moments of spontaneous, visceral satisfaction. …
One thing I’ve learned about making unsolicited contact with customers is that my outgoing personality (or “Loose Cannon Syndrome” as some friends call it) can be perceived as intimidating. A young couple and their toddler came in not long ago and headed back into our children’s section. The little boy was in one of those …
Anyone who’s ever worked in a bookstore knows a “shelf talker” is a small piece of paper taped to a shelf that’s intended to bring added attention to a particular title. Sometimes they include short reviews penned by staff members. This column is called The Shelf Talker because I see my role in the store …
