Better World Books: What other dealers can learn from the new model

- by Susan Halas

The tipper in action.


The Next Generation

That said, the shape of Better World Books is, like it or not, the shape of the future. On the plus side, these are bright, motivated people. Most are 30 or younger. To meet them is to be assured that there will definitely be a next generation in the book trade.

While we're waiting for that generation to mature, other dealers looking for a good value and inexpensive inventory can find BWB on line. They can also make an appointment to visit in person. The company extends the customary trade courtesies and has an excellent record of customer satisfaction.

Book buyers who want to visit in person contact: Tara Gilchrist in the Antiquarian, Rare and Collectible (ARC) department: (574) 855-5228 – Eastern Time Zone. tgilchrist@betterworldbooks.com Better World Books, 55740 Currant Rd. Mishawaka, IN 46545 An appointment is necessary for an on-site visit and it should be scheduled at least 48 hours in advance.

The company offers a trade discount of 20% on orders over $10. Visitors to Mishawaka can buy books selected from recycled (rejected materials) for $5 per large box. For those who actually visit the warehouse prices for books listed on-line are also somewhat flexible. Check with Tara.

Find all the on-line inventory at www.betterworldbooks.com.

This site also includes antiquarian material, but it is not broken out separately. There is also a great deal of other information related to the company at this URL.

BWB antiquarian stock is also listed separately on ABE books at www.abebooks.com/bookseller/BETTERWORLDARC.

BWB also sells at auction via eBay. Their auction offerings include antiquarian materials, and media lots such audio books on CD, music CDs and DVDs. Auction offerings change frequently. http://stores.ebay.com/Better-World-Books-ARC.

Reach AE Monthly writer Susan Halas at halas@hawaii.rr.com