BookExpo Introduces 'Vital Bookstore,' an Interactive Exhibit

BookExpo has announced the debut of the Vital Bookstore, an interactive exhibit and "collaborative learning space" intended to give booksellers insights into best merchandising practices to help drive in-store engagement.  The exhibit will be supported by education sessions that are geared to helping sellers and publishers maximize sales. The Vital Bookstore is being developed by bookstore and library display specialists Lisa and Dave Uhrik, owners of Franklin Fixtures, with input from bookstore owners and other experts. 

For purposes of learning and discussion, the interactive exhibit will, BookExpo said, feature four life-size walk-through vignettes: a café, a store with modern décor and sideline merchandising strategies, a traditional store with a classic library look and shelving designs, and a children’s store with special features to engage young readers. Visitors can explore the store three ways:

1. Take a self-guided tour, examining fixtures, shelf talkers, and photos showcasing great ideas from large and small bookstores across the U.S.
2. Take a small-group (8-10 people) guided tour led by a volunteer docent who will point out the pattern languages of success that are in play.
3. Join one of a number of 45-minute dialogue sessions with bookstore owners and others on a variety of topics, such as Creating Store Sales in Non-Traditional Ways, Easy Merchandising Changes That Work, and Disaster Preparedness.