Want to put the call out to other booksellers for suggestions on how best to promote eBooks and eReaders? Looking to share best practices for handling personnel matters? BookWeb’s online discussion forums are a great place to bring these and other issues to the attention of other booksellers or ABA and IndieCommerce staff members.

ABA bookstore members are eligible to receive a discount on standard and custom orders from ChicoBag, the manufacturer of reusable, stylish, and eco-friendly bags that come in a variety of shapes, sizes, fabrics, and colors. 

Newly elected ABA President Steve Bercu asks members to share their thoughts about any of the myriad issues affecting their businesses, encourages participation in the ABACUS-12 survey, and gives a shout-out to Stephen King and Hard Case Crime.

ABA has developed an affinity partnership with Alibris/Monsoon Commerce Solutions, which gives member stores an exclusive discount on services assisting in the sale of books online.

The Book Industry Charitable Foundation has extended its reach to provide utility shut-off prevention to bookstore employees facing personal financial hardship.

In recent months, ABA has welcomed four new staff members, whose aim is to share their skills as well as their passion for independent bookselling with member stores. For booksellers who didn’t have the opportunity to meet them at BEA, here’s an introduction to the association’s newest employees.

ABA member booksellers who “like” both the American Booksellers Association’s Facebook page and the ABC Group at ABA Facebook page by July 4 will be entered into a random drawing to win one of two sets of IndieBound “Eat Sleep Read” and “Snack Nap Read” posters.

In his bimonthly letter to members, ABA CEO Oren Teicher shares the renewed sense of optimism about indie bookselling that was evident at last week’s trade show, looks at some of the important changes of the past year, and reminds booksellers about several new programs and initiatives.

At the ABA Annual Membership Meeting at BEA, outgoing President Becky Anderson and ABA CEO Oren Teicher looked back at some of the accomplishments of recent years, expressed hope in the future, and thanked members for their support and participation in ABA programs and initiatives. At the earlier Town Hall, members shared their concerns on topics ranging from publisher best practices and e-book release dates, to sales tax fairness and World Book Night.

Here in photos are some of the highlights of the first two days at BEA 2013 at the Javits Convention Center in New York City.