General musings

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    The future of bookstores …

    4 Comments

    I saw something interesting at my local Barnes & Noble the other day — a poster advertisizing a Green Lantern costume party this weekend. In fact, every time I go into my local B&N these days, it seems like there is some event going on, whether it’s a book signing, something for teachers, or staff members demonstrating Nooks. I even thought I saw someone giving out makeup samples one day.

    Everyone knows that bookstores large and small are struggling these days, and I wonder if this is the future of bookstores — if they will slowly morph into more of a community gathering place rather than just a shop that sells books.

    I think it’s an interesting idea. Libraries do tons of different programs already — everything from kids’ storytimes to job fairs to art exhibits. A library is definitely more than just a place where you can borrow books — it’s a great resource. Seriously, if you haven’t been to your local library lately, go see what they have to offer. I bet you’ll find something that interests you.

    I wonder if bookstores will follow the same trend. Certainly, all the different events at my local B&N seem to be getting folks in the doors since the store is almost always busy whenever I’m there. I imagine that more than a few of those folks coming in for the events take the time to browse around, buy some books, have some coffee, and maybe even eat a cupcake or two.

    I don’t know if the different events help the store or not, or how much, but I don’t see how they can hurt. I think a Green Lantern costume party is a pretty cool idea, and I always look at the posters by the front doors to see what’s coming up.

    What about you guys? Do you go to events at your local library or bookstore? Have you noticed more events taking place at your local bookstore?

  • Valentine’s Day …

    1 Comment

    Just wanted to wish everyone a happy Valentine’s Day. Spend some time with your sweetheart or the folks you care about. And definitely eat some chocolate. 😉

  • Super Bowl time …

    8 Comments

    So who are you guys rooting for in the Super Bowl on Sunday? I’m going with the Green Bay Packers since they haven’t won it since the 1990s. (Sorry, Super Librarian Amy.)

    Wheezley, my significant other, is a Pittsburgh Steelers fan, so I imagine he will have some lively comments during the game — especially if things don’t go the Steelers way. LOL.

    In the meantime, here’s a cool video with some funny comments from players who were wired up on the sidelines this year.

    I just hope it’s a good game — and that the commercials are better this year than they were last year. Anyway, enjoy the last football game of the season and remember — we’re all undefeated tomorrow. 😉

    Is it September yet?

  • Just a reminder …

    I mean to post this every month, but it doesn’t always happen. Anyway, this is a reminder that I do a monthly e-newsletter that features my latest news, a couple of book recommendations, and a recipe. I also give away books to subscribers every month just for being subscribed to the newsletter list.

    To sign up for the newsletter, click over to the home page and fill out the form on the right-hand side of the page. You can also follow me on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads. I try to cross post and link to all of the major stuff (my book news, cover art, reviews, etc.) on all of the sites, but that doesn’t always happen either. LOL.

    Anyway, go forth and sign up, if you wish. Hope everyone has a great weekend! 😉