Learn how to launch a thriving indie bookstore with insights from Arlene Kaselman of Seven and One Books. Discover strategies for success and community engagement.
Starting an indie bookstore may seem daunting, but with the right insights and community support, it can turn into a rewarding venture. In this post, we’ll explore key takeaways from my conversation with Arlene Kaselman, owner of Seven and One Books in Abilene, Texas. She shares her journey from inspiration to execution, offering valuable lessons for aspiring bookstore owners.
Website: https://www.sevenandonebooks.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seven.and.one.books/
Order online: https://bookshop.org/shop/sevenandonebooks
About Arlene Kaselman
Arlene Kaselman is the owner of Seven and One Books, a beloved indie bookstore in Abilene, Texas. With a background in student affairs and teaching, she transitioned into entrepreneurship with a vision to create a community space that goes beyond just selling books.
The Spark of Inspiration
- Personal Story: Arlene’s journey began when her son was interning in New York, working with refugee families. During this time, they visited McNally Jackson bookstore, which inspired her dream of opening her own bookstore.
- Motivational Push: When she casually mentioned her aspiration, her son challenged her to pursue it. This conversation led her to start developing a business plan, showcasing the importance of support and encouragement from family.
Understanding the Community’s Needs
- Pop-Up Success: Before opening her brick-and-mortar store, Arlene conducted pop-up shops to gauge community interest and needs. This strategy helped her understand what the local readers were looking for beyond just books.
- Creating a Third Space: Arlene discovered that people were not only interested in buying books but also in having a welcoming place to gather. Her store became a community hub where people could relax, drink tea, and engage with others.
Core Values and Branding
- Defining Core Values: Arlene developed four core icons representing her bookstore’s values: a book, a chair, a candle, and a cup of tea. These symbols guided her in creating an emotionally hospitable environment.
- Designing the Space: With her background in ministry and student advocacy, Arlene was able to design a bookstore that felt like home, emphasizing comfort and community.
The Indie Bookstore Boom
- Post-COVID Resurgence: Interestingly, indie bookstores have seen a significant rise since 2020, with many communities rallying to support local businesses. Arlene attributes this growth to a shift in consumer mindset, where supporting local became more crucial than ever.
- Community Engagement: In Abilene, there’s a strong culture of shopping local, which has benefitted her bookstore immensely. This illustrates the importance of community connection for any small business.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Bookstore Owners
- Engage with Your Community: Understand what your community desires in a bookstore. This engagement will help you tailor your offerings and create a loyal customer base.
- Emphasize Experience Over Product: Focus on creating an inviting atmosphere where people feel welcome to linger, share, and connect.
- Adapt and Evolve: Be open to changing your business model based on community feedback and market trends. Arlene’s pop-up model was a perfect example of adapting to learn before fully committing.
Conclusion
Starting an indie bookstore involves more than just selling books; it’s about fostering a community space that connects with people’s needs and desires. As Arlene Kaselman showed us, with the right motivation, understanding your community, and a clear vision, you can create a thriving bookstore that resonates with readers.