Indie Bookstore Love: Random Idea #2

The Seattle Times reported the closing of another indie bookseller in town. So. In my on-going quest to brainstorm ideas for indies, here's another random idea...

RANDOM IDEA #2: PARTNER WITH LOCAL NON-PROFITS
Partner with organizations that serve a community near your store--children's hospital, moms' groups, food bank, foster kids, cancer research, etc. More likely than not, these groups send newsletters to their members. Why not pitch a quarterly column, creating a round-up of books on a topic that's pertinent to the specific group?

For instance, say the local hospital is within a mile or two of your store. October is Breast Cancer Prevention Month. So put together an article listing 10 books (fiction and non-fiction) that feature breast cancer. Or, say, the Children's Hospital is close by. Create a list of the 10 best read-alouds for pediatric patients. Use your store's name as the byline ito drive traffic to you. And create a table with the offerings in one easy-to-find spot.

What are the benefits?
1. It's a win-win. These groups are looking for content; you have books that are relevant to their members.
2. You reach a broader audience than your own base! At no mailing / production expense to you.
3. You're helping your community and building one at the same time.