Jan 14 2009
Opening a Used Bookstore
One of my big dreams in life has been to own a bookstore. I’ve always loved to read and write. But, it’s not just that. I love books themselves. I love the way a book feels in your hands, the way they smell and they way they look. I’m constantly thinking of how a book jacket could have been done differently after I’ve read the book. At this point, I’ve decided against opening a “new” bookstore. The expense is phenomenal and books just don’t sell as they used to with other entertainment venues available. So, a while back I started to think about opening a used book store and maybe adding new books along the way. It’s not feasible right now, but I still dream of it off in the future some time.
Online Used Bookstore
You can sell books to online bookstores on a sort of commission basis. Amazon, e-bay, ABE Books and A1 Books are just a few places to get started. For every sale you make, the selling website takes a commission. Sometimes they also charge a monthly fee. Another option would be to start you own used book website. This would come in handy when and if you opened an actual brick and mortar used bookstore. It would give you two selling outlets.
Brick and Mortar Bookstore
A physical bookstore will take quite a bit more money and planning to open. Besides gathering enough books to open your store (which we will talk about tomorrow), you need to find the right location. Be conservative on how much you can afford for a lease. It’s better to start out with a smaller building and a good location, than a larger shop where no one can find you. If you don’t already have experience in accounting, you will need to at least make an appointment with one and discuss what is involved as far as tax and bookkeeping requirements. You’ll need a sign, which can be a big expense, shelving, furnishings, cash register, counter and the list goes on. In fact, that’s a good place to start, with a list and while you are doing that do research, research, research. Know what you are getting into and if you can afford to see it through the first few lean years of the business.
This is my dream as well