local author Inventory Consideration

As an independent bookstore, we are enthusiastic supporters of local authors and our community. However, We receive dozens of requests each week, have limited space, and an even more limited budget. We can not carry every book, this is true for well-known and award-winning writers as well as lesser-known, emerging talents. Our purchasing decisions are based on many factors, including but not limited to budgetary considerations, customer interest, overall business needs, and space available. If we are unable to carry your book, please understand that this is not a personal rejection of you or your work.

Our Conditions: In order for us to consider carrying your book in our store, please note the following requirements:

• We do not take books on consignment. Please do not leave unsolicited copies of your book at the store.
• At this time, we only order books that are available through our primary distributor, Ingram. 
• Your book must not have been created by using AI in any fashion, including the cover art.
• It must be professionally edited
• Be discounted at our standard wholesale rate through Ingram (40%)
• Be returnable through Ingram 
• Have an ISBN clearly visible  
• Have the title and author clearly visible on the spine

The standard wholesale discount in the book industry typically ranges from 40–55%. When books are offered below this range, what wholesalers classify as a “short discount”, the margin becomes too slim for independent bookstores to operate sustainably. This applies to traditionally published books, as well as indie published books.

Unlike most retail industries, bookstores don’t control the pricing of their products. Publishers set fixed retail prices, which means bookstores can’t adjust pricing to offset rising operational costs like rent, utilities, and wages. As a result, maintaining full-price sales isn’t about maximizing profit it’s about staying viable.

Large retailers like Amazon, Target, and Walmart often sell books below cost as “loss leaders.” This means they take a loss on books to attract customers who will then purchase higher-margin items. This strategy threatens the existence of independent bookstores, which rely on book sales as their primary revenue source.

Supporting independent bookstores by purchasing books at full price helps sustain local businesses, preserve community spaces, and maintains diversity in the book industry.