J.O.Y. BOOKSTORE
Sinking Springs, Pennsylvania
JoyBookstore.com
610-678-7627
J.O.Y. Bookstore has a little different concept for selling its books. They believe they have a ministry more than a bookstore. In fact, the store name J.(Jesus) O. (others) Y. (You) shows what they believe. Margaret says, “We never will sell a book just for the sale.”
The entire staff is experienced and very knowledgeable about the books on the shelves. Margaret makes sure everyone has a chance to make use of any and all promotional materials they receive.
The website and the store’s Facebook page are up-to-date and easy to use. On Facebook, employees make sure fans and followers can see all the different activities sponsored at the store. Author events, story hours, food drives and several other activities show the store is active and in touch with the community.
J.O.Y. Bookstore has one thing that not every store has: its own best-selling author, Tracy Higley, who frequents the store. Making good use of the store, Tracy wants everyone to know “J.O.Y. Bookstore has a fabulous selection of books and gifts, including a huge fiction section. Margaret and her staff are committed to giving their customers a great experience; and I love J.O.Y .—as an author and a customer!”
Cody and Amanda Johnson joined Ted Dekker at the annual Gathering. The Gathering is a chance for Dekker fans to get together, visit and meet with Ted.
Library:
HAVEN CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH LIBRARY
Zeeland, Michigan
HavenChurch.org
616-772-2400
In the little town of Zeeland, Mich., is the hidden gem of Haven Christian Reformed Church’s Library. Lois Tinklenberg has been the church librarian for 45 years, at least as close as she can figure. In that time, she has watched many young readers grow to be regular patrons of her library.
Her staff works very hard to make sure to process all new books quickly to get them on the shelves and ready to be enjoyed. Lois listens to suggestions from her staff, readers and local bookstore employees. She knows it takes a lot of work to make sure the shelves are filled with books everyone (from young to old) enjoys.
They have a wonderful page on the church website that offers an overall video tour of the library and the hours they are open. Reviews are available on the website.
With their library located in a high traffic area, they are a busy place. To make the library easier to use, Lois and her staff make sure the displays are full and that the seasonal decorations include different books. Whether it is a summer reading list or a Christmas display, there is a perfect book to fit any occasion.
“The library should be a welcoming place, where people feel comfortable to spend time. It should be a place where everyone can find something to read and enjoy.”
NUMBER OF CBA STORES IN GUAM
(Source: Christian Booksellers Association)
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