It's a shame to get such poor examples of a bookstore nowadays. All the sadder because I love books so much.
The layout of the store reminds me of old chain places like B. Dalton books. Tiny selection, though they managed to have a section for most genres. And as the previous reviewer stated, the clearances prices are terrific: 60-70% off cover price.
My problem, as with most bookstores, are the employees. I overhead one of the cashiers/manager--whoever--assisting a pair of customers. I could immediately tell by the tone of his voice that he enjoyed looking down on people. All of sudden he asks the customers, "You're not from NJ, are you?" "We used to have so many problems with New Yorkers, but now it's the New Jersey people." To which the customers replied, "Oh no! We're from Ohio, where the smart people are!"
First things first: every website I've searched related to "IQ's by state" place Ohio well below NJ, so you're not fooling anyone. Same with PA. But my beef is with the self-righteous clerk who thinks he's a superior intellect because he knows 80's shows like "Saint Elsewhere." Clearly he's still living in the era of this bookstore. But more importantly, this location is a haven for visiting shoppers, particularly those from NJ, NY and other surrounding states. A little bit of courtesy might land you a little more business.
But why should I expect courtesy from someone who peddles paper media in the digital age? It's not like those who buy books aren't a niche market, right?
At least Barnes and Noble is big enough that I don't have to hear the employees' snark all the time... read more