College to Take Over Management of Book Store
Posted April 3rd, 2015 at 11:05 am.
The College will once again manage its own bookstore beginning in May 2015, right after graduation.
“An independent store will provide better service to meet the academic program needs of the community and offer merchandise more attractive to all of its customers,” says Chief Administrative Officer Jerry Berenson.
The Bryn Mawr College Bookstore has been managed for the past four years by Follett Higher Education Group. The College contracted with Follett to manage the bookstore with the thought that they might be able to better compete with on-line booksellers.
“That was true when we brought Follett on board,” says Berenson. “But new technologies are now available to assist independent bookstores to price books competitively with on-line sellers. Also, excellent used book and book rental programs can now be more easily managed by an independent store.”
Just as important, Berenson is hoping the return to having an independent bookstore with allow for the sort of customer service and community connection some felt has been lost in recent years.
“We’re confident that the new store will draw back former customers,” says Berenson. “We want to be a partner and resource for all campus departments, alumnae/i, visitors, and hopefully the local community.”
The College is in the process of searching for a store manager who will work with College administrators and a consultant to establish the new independent bookstore. The store manager’s primary charge will be to work with faculty and the Provost’s Office to ensure that services will be provided to help faculty obtain books and other course materials in an efficient manner. There are also plans to tap into student talent with internship positions to work in all facets of store operations, such as merchandise selection, marketing, website maintenance, and social media.
Further updates will be sent out as the opening of the new store approaches.