Hobbies And Interests
Chains
Chain bookstores include a number of different stores owned by the same company. Many feature similar sizing, layout and product options from store to store. Chain bookstores can be found in malls and major shopping centers, and may even serve as an anchor in smaller shopping complexes. Each carries thousands of books in a wide variety of genres, and many incorporate cafes or coffee bars to increase sales and draw in new customers. Because these stores buy in bulk, they may be able to offer discounts on best selling books, and many provide additional discounts to club members or frequent customers.
Independents
Independent bookstores include shops that are individually owned and not part of a larger chain. They may specialize in a particular genre, such as mystery books, and many hold a relatively small number of titles compared to chain stores. Independent bookshops continue to struggle against chains and online retailers, and many are forced to focus on new avenues like cafes or live music to stay afloat. The bookstore tourism movement has also played a role in helping these small bookshops to survive.
Second-Hand
Used, or second-hand bookshops sell previously owned books. They may fall into one of two categories, including rare or antiquarian bookshops and those that sell more general-purpose books for casual readers. Some take the form of charity or thrift shops, while others specialize in auctioning high-end titles worth thousands of dollars.
Scholastic
Scholastic bookstores are typically found on college or university campuses. They specialize in selling text books and educational books to students, and may also sell shirts and other gear adorned with the school logo. Museum shops and the like can also fall within this category.
Adult
Adult bookstores specialize in erotic fiction and romance. Many also sell novelty goods and video products of an adult nature. In many areas, you must be at least 18 to enter an adult bookshop.
Online
Online bookstores have risen in popularity since the early '90, when Internet use became widespread. Many shoppers go online to buy books to save money, and also to take advantage of the wide selection of titles. Others eschew this method of shopping for the tangible feel of a brick-and-mortar bookstore.