Created by ABA specifically to meet the needs of independent bookstores, LIBRIS offers tailored and affordable property, liability, and workers’ compensation insurance through local brokers across the country.

A special promotion offers ABA membership to used bookstores for just $100, half the annual price of used bookstore membership, if stores sign up before December 31, 2013.

ABA has teamed up with Biblio.com to offer a new affiliate program that enables member stores to give their website visitors instant access to millions of used, rare, and out-of-print books from more than 5,000 independent booksellers worldwide.

ABA members are eligible for discounted individual and/or company-wide insurance benefit packages through Asset MarketPlace, an independent insurance wholesaler with a wide selection of policies.

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. 

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.

ABA has signed an agreement with Independent Merchant Group Inc., an independent merchant services auditing and consulting firm that will put its extensive knowledge of the credit card industry to work for booksellers to achieve the best possible rates with a store’s current credit card processor.

Shipping can be one of the most complicated — and costly — activities for any small business, but there are ways to reduce your shipping costs, including developing an inbound shipping management program, consolidating shipments, using the correct shipping mode and service level, and getting the best discounts.

Joining previously announced ABA affiliated business solution partners, POS vendors, and others at the Winter Institute 8 Consultation Station will be representatives of the Book Industry Charitable Foundation, BookExpo America, Ingram, LIBRIS, and Rafter.com.

As in years past, many small package shipping services and lanes will feature rate increases greater than the average increases the carriers have announced. But this year PartnerShip’s analysis shows the increases are somewhat lower on the more expensive premium services and are higher on deferred services.