The opening of a new Barnes & Noble bookstore in Abilene last month has brought excitement for some readers and concern for others about the impact on local independent bookstores.
“I think they have more kind of unique selections,” one local book lover said of indie stores. “It’s more personable things that people will sort of look for… they do events. Yeah. They’re much more cozy. I like how they support other small businesses as well.”
Arlene Castleman, owner of Seven and One Books, said her customers have shown strong support despite the arrival of the national chain. “Our customer base has been so loyal, and they’ve actually been a little aggressive on social media at times,” Castleman said. “I’ve had to say, hey, pull back, guys. This is a good thing… a rising tide. It’s a good thing.”
While she admitted she “gave myself about a day to panic” when hearing the news, Castleman said she ultimately decided Barnes & Noble isn’t direct competition. “I’m not sure they’re our competition. We’re not in the same game exactly.”
Dawn Powell, owner of the used bookstore Book Therapy, said he was “really happy that they’re coming in” but expressed concern about the store’s long-term presence in Abilene. “I hope to see more people hear about us… a lot of people don’t realize that we exist,” he said.
Castleman believes all the city’s bookstores fill unique roles. “We can all benefit from each other because we all refer people to each other. And the more book lovers and readers, the better,” she said. “Abilene is better for having Barnes and Noble.”
Seven and One Books offers new titles, journals, bookmarks, greeting cards and serves as “a community third space,” Castleman said. “People just come and hang out and make tea and sit and talk books.”
While Barnes & Noble can stock titles she can’t, Castleman sees her store as one piece of a larger puzzle. “Do you want the latest bestseller? Come [to] Seven and One Books. Do you want something specific about Abilene or Texas? Go to Texas Star. Do you want to find a really unique coffee table book or an old Western? Go to Book Therapy,” she said. “I think we all have our space in this market.”