07-10-2010, 04:46 AM
I think the closure of Borders is a great opportunity for a good-sized independent bookstore in Hilo. As a former owner of a new/used bookstore (early 1980s), I know that it is difficult for independents to succeed, BUT by combining new and used books there is a far greater possibility of having a successful bookstore. You also have to have a passion for books and a good business sense. An employee-owned store with such people is also more likely to succeed.
Serving food and coffee, etc. is more difficult, as it usually also requires health department approvals, additional licenses, inspections, etc. (though I don't know Hawai'i county or state regs). There are also people who just come in to read and hang out without buying anything (and, sometimes, spilling drink or putting food-messy hands on stock), which has been problematic for many bookstores with food and lounge areas.
Anyway, we all should continue to support to Mary Bicknell's Big Island Book Seller in Pahoa and Christine, David Reed's Basically Books, and the Book Gallery in Hilo.
Serving food and coffee, etc. is more difficult, as it usually also requires health department approvals, additional licenses, inspections, etc. (though I don't know Hawai'i county or state regs). There are also people who just come in to read and hang out without buying anything (and, sometimes, spilling drink or putting food-messy hands on stock), which has been problematic for many bookstores with food and lounge areas.
Anyway, we all should continue to support to Mary Bicknell's Big Island Book Seller in Pahoa and Christine, David Reed's Basically Books, and the Book Gallery in Hilo.
Reality aint what we think it is. (blueroom.com/realityaint.htm)