We recently read a theory on the placement of romance novels in bookstores. Briefly, because romance readers are voracious readers, bookstores place romances near the back so that plenty of shopping gets done before the final destination is reached. You’d think Barnes & Noble would have learned something from that. Somehow, we think not:
Word that Barnes & Noble is planning to move its Discover New Writers display off the front racks of many stores at the end of May is setting off alarms across the industry. If the plan goes forward, many publishers believe it could be a blow for first-time writers, since the well-regarded program, which features 20–25 fiction and nonfiction titles each quarter, may be harder for readers to find in superstores.
But maybe we’re being too hasty. Is it possible that Barnes & Noble even wants to sell books?
Though B&N publicity director Mary Ellen Keating declined to confirm the move or to comment on “changes that have not yet occurred in our stores,” sources said it comes as part of a reorganization of front-of-store merchandising at B&N. Beginning in May, they said, displays near the entrances will feature high-margin books, including B&N’s proprietary titles, bestsellers, books supported by publishers’ co-op contributions, more board games and a new “theme” table.
More at the Publisher’s Weekly site.
- B&N Pushes New Writers Off ‘Power Aisle’ (Note: Subscription required.)
2 responses so far ↓
Dan Wickett // Apr 9, 2005 at 7:19 am
Just another example of why readers should keep on driving when they’re looking for a BOOKstore and can only find a B&N.
Enjoy,
Booksquare // Apr 9, 2005 at 3:28 pm
Yes, of course you’re right. It strikes me upon reading what you’ve written that my hometown (birth home, not current home) no longer has a (new) bookstore. The last one was driven out by Wal-Mart, I believe. Progress. Bad for books.