Books you don't need in a place you can't find
David points us to the Montague Bookmill. This is the bookstore of the future, because it's not a business trying to maximize growth and ROI. No, it's a place, an attitude, an approach to an afternoon. They don't sell every book, they don't even pretend to.
Just as vinyl records persist, an object of joy for some listeners and a profitable cottage business for some sellers, bookstores are going to become like gift stores. The goal isn't a commodity transaction with maximum selection at minimum price, the goal is an experience worth seeking out and paying for.
We're going to see more and more of these newly archaic industries turn into lifestyle businesses, which is what they used to be before Wall Street showed up.
When buying books is a click away - as it is for me most of the tome - what is a local bookstore to become. I think this - a Connected Place.
The Bookshelf in Guelph has the same format of books, coffee and movies - http://www.bookshelf.ca/hours.html
This is my favourite bar in Guelph, Ontario. A double Grey Goose martini only costs $8 including tax! HOLY CRAP! They have fantastic beers on draft including an assortment of microbrewery beers including: Wellington Brewery, Mill Street, Steamwhistle and F & M beer. Every month the walls are switched up and adorned with new local artistic talent!
They also just opened a new open concept kitchen in the back lounge area and you can order tapas items, one of the best burgers in town or if you are a vegetarian, there are always a number of items to enjoy. I love this place. It is also known as one of the best live music venues in the area. Great accoustics! Ebar has hosted bands such as Cuff the Duke, Ohbijou, Lenny Jabour, Moneen, The Slackers, We're Marching On and Attack in Black...just to name a few!
Ok, last thing...The Bookshelf Ebar is a martini bar that is owned and operated in the same building as The Bookshelf Bookstore and The Bookshelf Cinema. You can pick up a magazine in the bookstore, go upstairs to read it while drinking a fabulous maritini, grab a bite to eat and see a movie...all under the same roof.
A model?
